Section Article

Intersectionality in Online Spaces: An Analysis of Identity and Community Formation
Author(s): Akash Tiwari

Abstract
The digital revolution has transformed the ways in which individuals construct express and negotiate their identities in online spaces. The concept of intersectionality which examines how various social identities—such as race gender class sexuality and disability—overlap and create unique experiences of discrimination or privilege is increasingly relevant in the context of digital communities. This research explores how online platforms facilitate the expression of intersectional identities the formation of digital communities and the impact of algorithmic structures on inclusivity and representation. Through a combination of qualitative analysis case studies and a review of existing literature this paper highlights how social media and online forums empower marginalized voices while simultaneously reinforcing systemic biases through digital gatekeeping and content moderation practices. The findings suggest that while digital spaces provide unprecedented opportunities for identity formation and collective advocacy they also pose challenges related to exclusion misinformation and online harassment. This study underscores the need for ethical platform design community-driven moderation and inclusive algorithms to ensure that intersectional identities are accurately represented and equitably engaged in the digital age.