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This year, RUNWAY celebrates the vibrant diversity within Buffalo State University by inviting everyone to explore and express their "Intersectional Identity." This focus challenges participants and viewers to reflect on the complexities of their own identities, drawing attention to the ways in which our unique differences also unite us as one.

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Inspired by Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw’s concept of intersectionality, "Intersectional Identity" encourages designers to explore the overlapping layers of identity shaped by race, gender, religion, sexuality, ability, class, and culture. More than just coexisting, these aspects interact within structures of power and privilege, shaping how individuals experience the world. By examining these intersections, designers can create work that not only reflects the richness of identity but also challenges societal norms and amplifies diverse voices.

 

This year’s show goes beyond celebrating individuality—it ignites a deeper conversation about the connections that unite us. It challenges designers, audiences, and the industry to reflect on the ways we are interconnected. Through their collections, designers weave narratives of identity, heritage, and lived experience, inviting everyone to recognize the unity found within these diverse yet interconnected stories.

 

At its core, RUNWAY is about celebrating the power of fashion as a transformative medium—a tool to foster understanding, advocate for inclusivity, and promote social justice. By highlighting each other's beauty, the show aims to remind us all that despite our unique experiences, we are intricately connected.

 

Together, we will celebrate the infinite ways identity is expressed and reaffirm that diversity does not divide us—it strengthens us, creating a tapestry of unity and belonging. Through the innovative designs of Buffalo State University’s talented designers, RUNWAY inspires both reflection and action, paving the way for a more inclusive and empathetic world.