Why Your Intersectional ERG Events Might Be Falling Flat—and How to Fix It

Let’s talk about a common misstep I see when it comes to intersectionality in ERG events. Too often, we try to create intersectional programming by combining a couple of identities—like “What does it mean to be a Black woman in tech?” And just like that, it gets labeled as an “intersectional event.”

But here’s the thing: these types of panels often fall short. Why? Because we’re leading with identity labels, instead of leading with engaging, meaningful topics that draw people in—and only then layering on the richness of intersectionality. What we end up with is something that can feel predictable, surface-level, or even like a complaint space (and no one likes that vibe).

Think about it: If you hear “____ insert community___ in leadership,” your brain fills in the blanks, “Okay, we’ll probably discuss the challenges of being ____ insert community___ , how to be a good ally, and maybe touch on a couple of tips” But what if we flipped the script?

Actionable Steps to Level-Up Your Intersectional Programming

Here’s how we can do better: instead of leading with identities, let’s lead with topics that are genuinely interesting, fun, and creative—then infuse intersectionality naturally. Intersectionality should add depth, not limit the scope of the event. Here’s how to implement this shift:

1️⃣ Lead with a Passion Topic, Layer in Identity:

• Instead of a “How to be Asian and LGBTQ in Corporate” panel, host an Office Outfit Styling session on self-expression, led by an API queer employee. The focus shifts to exploring creative ways people express themselves through fashion, with participants sharing how their identities inspire their style choices. This opens up richer conversations—not just about identity but also about personal creativity, confidence, and individuality—creating a more dynamic and engaging experience. It becomes about what they express rather than how they identify, adding meaningful layers without being confined to identity labels.

2️⃣ Create Space for the Unexpected:

• Imagine a tech trivia night hosted by a Veterans ERG and a Disabilities & Neurodiversity ERG. At first glance, these two groups might not seem like natural collaborators. But by coming together, they could showcase how adaptive technologies developed for military use are now helping people with disabilities thrive—and vice versa. Through fun, competitive trivia, employees learn unexpected connections between two seemingly unrelated worlds. The event sparks organic conversations about resilience, innovation, and overcoming challenges—topics both groups deeply understand—without being boxed into a conversation solely about identity.

3️⃣ Think About Intersectionality as an Extra Layer, Not the Whole Cake:

• The topic should be compelling on its own. Picture an outdoor fitness challenge organized by the Generations ERG and the Mental Health ERG. The focus is on promoting wellness through physical activity, with participants tackling fun challenges like yoga, hiking, or obstacle courses. Intersectionality becomes an enriching element when participants share how different life stages—like retirement, parenthood, or being early in their careers—shape their mental health and fitness journeys. The key is that the fitness challenge stands on its own as engaging and accessible, with personal stories adding unexpected depth and nuance.

The Problem with Lazy Intersectionality

When organizations approach intersectionality superficially, it can feel like they’re just checking a box. Intersectionality should encourage us to think beyond the obvious connections and explore how different identities intersect in unexpected ways. The point isn’t to demonize these events, but rather to challenge ERG communities to collaborate with more thoughtfulness and creativity - not just to layer identities but to reveal the full, complex stories that bring people together. Thoughtful collaboration allows us to create spaces where curiosity and creativity thrive—and where intersectionality is truly felt, not forced.