the masters tools will never dismantle the masters house

Audre Lorde argues at a NYU conference that feminist theory must center on the differences of race, sexuality, class, and age among women to be meaningful. She critiques the absence of Black feminists and lesbians in the discourse, emphasizing that racism, sexism, and homophobia are interconnected. Lorde highlights that traditional patriarchal models of nurturance fail to acknowledge interdependence among women, which is essential for genuine empowerment. She asserts that mere tolerance of difference is insufficient; instead, differences should be seen as valuable resources for creativity and change. Lorde stresses the importance of community and solidarity among marginalized women, stating that without recognizing and valuing these differences, true liberation is unattainable. She concludes that the tools of a patriarchal system cannot dismantle it; a new approach that empowers all women is needed to create a transformative feminist movement.

Factual Question: According to Audre Lorde, what specific differences must feminist theory center on to be meaningful?

Provocative Question: Audre Lorde states that the tools of a patriarchal system cannot dismantle it. How might contemporary feminist movements be unintentionally using 'patriarchal tools,' and what 'new approach' could genuinely empower all women and dismantle the system?