Intersectional Oppression in Ntozake Shange’s Novel Sassafrass, Cypress and Indigo

Abstract

Oppression is a term that describes the exercise of authority or power in a cruel, unjust, or tyrannical manner to suppress or control a particular group, individual, or community. Black feminism's distinctive perspective sees oppression as an intersection of factors. The concept of intersectionality, introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw, highlights how the experience of Black women is not just the sum of racism and sexism but rather a unique form of discrimination that arises from the intersection of these two identities. The specific challenges faced by Black women are often overlooked in discussions of both race and gender. This article aims to elaborate Black feminist perspective toward women’s oppression by focusing on the intersectional oppression of black protagonists in Sassafrass, Cypress & Indigo written by Ntozake Shange. The African-American novelist integrates the black women marginalized by society and by the men within their community.