Intersectionality is a term coined by Kimberle Crenshaw in 1989 to describe the inseparable connection between oppression and personal identities. This is especially relevant to people with disabilities, who face discrimination and oppression that is compounded with also being people of color, women, LGBTQIA, non-native English speakers, or otherwise multiply-marginalized in society. Intersectionality is a critical piece of the discussion on disability identity and who has access to services and leadership in their communities and in the Independent Living Movement. Nothing About Us Without Us is a beloved rallying cry in our Movement. We should abide by the same rules for all of the diverse people with disabilities in our communities. We must serve consumers from all backgrounds, and so we must have the staff, board members, and community leaders at the table who represent those same backgrounds and life experiences. Upon completion of this teleconference, participants will learn: • The concept of intersectionality as part of a cultural competence framework for supporting and including all people with disabilities in Independent Living • How social power has been used by institutions and organizations to marginalize certain groups and the resulting impact on access to services and supports • Effective outreach and community networking strategies to identify all unserved and underserved marginalized populations in CILs' service areas • How the intersectionality paradigm can be used to build empowerment and leadership among marginalized people involved in Centers for Independent Living and Statewide Independent Living Councils