Intersectional activism: Wangari Maathai's rhetorical revolution for peace, democracy, and the environment

Abstract

This thesis examines Wangari Maathai's intersectional activism. By assessing her use of metaphor, narrative, and appeals to transcendence, I explore the ways in which her rhetorical integration of the themes of peace, democracy, and the environment function as intersectional activism. This capability is exemplified in Maathai's rhetoric through her merger of the rhetorical strategies to highlight the power of the African people in taking charge of their choices regarding environmental stewardship. Also, this merger focuses on the issues at hand but illustrates their impact on both the people and the landscape in a creative manner that adapts to the voices Maathai represents. Through these rhetorical strategies, Maathai develops persuasive and strategic communication demonstrative of intersectional activism and rhetoric of peace.