Women Veterans: Examining identity through an intersectional lens

Abstract: The U.S. Armed Forces are becoming increasingly more diverse by the generation as the number of women, people of colour, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning service members continues to grow. These changes are creating a ripple effect because the Veteran population is also growing increasingly diverse. This examination draws on intersectionality theory and critical race theory to address disparities that exist among women Veterans. Further analysis shows the absence of intersectionality theory and critical race theory at the core of Veteran health care, Veteran service organizations, and community reintegration, and it indicates a systemic pattern of marginalization and erasure of vulnerable populations.