An intersectional analysis of Aboriginal women in the Downtown Eastside and B.C.'s income assistance policy

This project uses intersectional theory to analyze the socio-economic status of Aboriginal women in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside. Intersectionality emphasizes that the life experiences of some individuals are shaped by, not only one, but multiple forms of oppression. Through an interpretive analysis of first person interviews with members of B.C.'s income assistance policy community, I find that gender and ethnicity contribute to structuring the socio-economic status of Aboriginal women in this area. Specifically, gender and racial stereotypes in the labour market and everyday public life shape their material well-being. Strengthening income assistance in conjunction with other social policies may help Aboriginal women improve their socio-economic status. However, government action alone will not solve the problem. The mere existence of gender stereotypes of women and racial stereotypes of Aboriginal people means that gender and ethnicity will continue to contribute to shaping the socio-economic status of this group.