"Inter...what?" The discursive construction of intersectionality in the implementation of public policies

After three decades of intensive theorization and discussion in academic and activist circles, intersectionality is progressively being adopted in public policies. Yet, its practical applications within public administrations are largely unexplored. This article examines the translation of intersectionality from theory to praxis in the process of policy implementation. Specifically, we analyze the discursive construction of an intersectional-inspired policy in a Spanish public administration. Through qualitative methodology, we reveal the meanings that the technical staff attaches to intersectionality and their connection with other established concepts in equality and antidiscrimination policy, particularly gender and diversity. We argue that the prior knowledge and position within the institutional structure deeply affect how the personnel responsible for translating intersectionality into practice understand the concept. Such understandings can reduce initial resistances and foster its use in the policy action but might also contribute to empty intersectionality of its transformative potential. Our study of the discursive construction of intersectionality shows the path ahead to untangle the linkages with gender and diversity approaches, which are consolidated frameworks in equality and antidiscrimination law and policies, while showing the opportunities that already exist and can foster a successful implementation of intersectionality in public policies.