Analysing contemporary African Australian experiences through an intersectional feminist lens

Through an intersectional feminist analysis, this article addresses how the African-Australian community are represented through institutions, discourses and mainstream culture. As social workers, it is important to critically analyse power structures and value lived experience in our practice. This is a systemic issue. There is a misrepresentation of Australians of African descent in the media, an underrepresentation within politics and overrepresentation when considering their interactions with law enforcement. This article illustrates the resilience, strength and power of the African-Australian community. It draws on a grassroots case study that challenges stereotypes, champions diversity and amplifies the voices of activists. The article is drawn from the advocacy experiences of the authors, both of whom are young women of colour and leaders within their communities.