The Right to Intellectual Self-Definition

Sor Juana famously defended her right to pursue knowledge and theology despite institutional and patriarchal resistance. She insisted on defining herself through her intellect rather than accepting limited roles assigned by gender and status. In intersectionality practice, this concept recognizes that individuals at the intersection of multiple marginalized identities must claim authority over their own narratives and knowledge. Rather than accepting definitions imposed by dominant systems, people can assert their right to self-determine how they understand their identities, experiences, and contributions. This is foundational to intersectional justice: allowing Black women, Indigenous scholars, LGBTQ+ thinkers, and others to name their realities without seeking external validation.