What is "intersectionality" in the context of working with students who have disabilities?

"Intersectionality" refers to the fact that individuals have multiple identities, with respect to gender, race, ethnicity, age, marital status, socioeconomic status, disability, etc. Those working with individuals with disabilities should recognize that the interaction of these identities influences a person's experiences, perspectives, and other aspects of their life. For example, a boy with a learning disability who grew up in a low income family and attended schools that offered few specialized resources may be less prepared for college than a girl with a similar disability from a family with more financial resources and a school with more services. The combination of these identities may help explain their different levels of college readiness.