How does intersectionality contribute to the understanding of racial identity within the framework of Racial Formation Theory?

Intersectionality helps us understand racial identity by showing how different parts of a person's identity, like race, gender, and class, work together to shape their experiences. In Racial Formation Theory, which looks at how society creates and changes racial categories, intersectionality highlights that race is not the only factor that influences someone's life. For example, a Black woman may face challenges that are different from those faced by a Black man or a white woman, because her identity includes both race and gender. By considering these overlapping identities, we can see a fuller picture of how society treats individuals and how they navigate their lives. This deeper understanding can help us address issues of inequality more effectively.