The Purpose of Power: How We Come Together When We Fall Apart

Hegemony (also called cultural hegemony) is a term coined by Marxist philosopher Antonio Gramsci to illustrate how ruling classes use culture as a tool of control. Along with using force, people who wield power can, over time, manufacture consent by shifting people’s perception of what constitutes common sense. Garza notes that movements must put effort into effecting change within both the cultural and political spheres.

Intersectionality is a tool that teaches people how power operates. It highlights existing unequal power dynamics and encourages intersectional organizations to find ways to evenly distribute power, ensuring “no one is left behind” (145). It is different from diversity—which is about including various groups—and representation—which is about representing marginalized groups.

Movements are the result of people and organizations coming together to fight for a collective vision. To be successful, they require the backup of organizations and a large base of dedicated members. Garza describes them as waves, perpetually ebbing and flowing with no clear beginning or end. They are the efforts of previous generations and are essential for survival.