Struggles and Position of Women in Kincaid’s Girl and Packer’s Drinking Coffee Elsewhere

Introduction
From my membership in all of these groups [Black, lesbian, feminist, socialist, poet, mother] I have learned that oppression and the intolerance of difference come in all shapes and sexes and colors and sexualities; and that among those of us who share the goals of liberation and a workable future for our children, there can be no hierarchies of oppression. I have learned that sexism and heterosexism both arise from the same source as racism. -Audre Lorde, from There is no Hierarchy of Oppressions
Instructions
Begin by watching Kimberlé Crenshaw's TED Talk on the urgency of intersectionality. Then, read the two articles on intersectional feminism to make sure you understand the meaning. Refer back to bell hook's book Feminism is For Everybody, which we read selections of in Week 8.
"The Urgency of Intersectionality" TED Talk by Kimberlé Crenshaw
"Why Our Feminism Must Be Intersectional" from Everyday Feminism
"Intersectional Feminism: What the hell is it? (And why you should care)" by Ava Vidal
Then, select either "Girl" by Jamaica Kincaid OR "Names / Nombres" by Julia Alvarez to do a close reading. Everyone must read "Drinking Coffee Elsewhere" by ZZ Packer. This week's discussion will be a comparison of either Girl or "Names / Nombres" and "Drinking Coffee Elsewhere."
Please consider these questions in your comparison:
How are the women in these stories defined? How do they define themselves?
What intersections are part of these definitions? Where is there overlap between their self-identity as women or members of specific cultures or cultural groups?
How does sexuality come into play as the women in these stories develop their identity?
In what way are the women in these stories "othered" or held up in comparison to standard definitions of womanhood or humanity?
How do power and/or privilege contribute to these young women's ability to develop their identity?