The tactical choice of when to claim public presence and when to withdraw, used by those navigating systems designed to erase or exploit their visibility.
Sor Juana published boldly under her own name—visible—yet also withdrew to the convent, creating protected intellectual space. She understood that visibility carries danger for those at intersectional margins. Strategic visibility means choosing when and how to be seen: publishing work that demands recognition, speaking into public discourse, claiming authorship. Strategic invisibility means protecting oneself from surveillance, harassment, and appropriation by stepping back. In intersectional practice, this recognition that visibility is not always freedom—and invisibility not always oppression—becomes crucial. Those navigating multiple marginalizations often move fluidly between these positions based on context, safety, and strategic need. This concept rejects the notion that liberation requires constant public presence, instead honoring the wisdom of knowing when to occupy space and when to create private sanctuary for thought and recovery.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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