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Paper Short Abstract:

Through both its methodological and theoretical tools, assemblage helps to reveal that activists’ understandings of intersectionality are not simply transplanted from one place to another but are assembled out of and impacted by many heterogenous (trans)local elements and their interactions.

Paper Abstract:

In my work with activists engaged in various struggles in Flanders (Belgium), the field, topics, scope and limits of the research are highly dependent on the constantly evolving relationships between all agents and elements involved – from individual activists and organisations, to broader discourses and political dynamics, to time and space themselves. How these relationships play out and interact impacts what is in- and excluded, what becomes visible and is invisibilised in this research. Starting out from one existing relationship, I step by step invite people to become part of the knowledge production process through different modes and temporalities of involvement. By coming together to discuss what intersectionality means to activists in and for their activist practices, we actively assemble ‘intersectionality in activism’ together.

Because of the essential role of constantly shifting relationships between heterogenous elements, I turn to assemblage theory to describe and make sense not only of my methodological approach but also of the created research material. Assemblage ethnography allows me to organically follow the relationships and affects that shape understandings of intersectionality in Flemish activism. Thus, assemblage helps to reveal that activists’ understandings of intersectionality are not simply transplanted from one place to another but are assembled out of and impacted by political purposes, activist strategies and aims; by powerful societal dynamics and discourses; by personal experiences and emotions; by theories, their mobilities and mutations; and by the interaction of all of these elements. Acknowledging this might help finding coalition partners across focus topics and struggles.