| Multi-axis theory asserts that women of color stand along the axes of race and gender, as well as at the intersection which cannot be divided out and attributed to either race or gender alone. Each position offers an “ideological advantage” where one is likely to be more sensitive to oppressions that result from their own stigmatized status. Because Black women are disadvantaged by race, gender and their intersectional status, they are likely to engage in struggles for empowerment on all three fronts, adopting a more radical stance and concepts of leadership that advance fundamental systematic change. Black women's self defined leadership requires the integration of theory and practice, is proactive as opposed to simply reactive, employs a model of “group-centered leadership,” and utilizes methods of inside participation and outside agitation. This leadership model is employed both by grassroots and elected leaders who work in tandem towards progressive goals. |
