#Microaggressions

From an inservice by two amazing co-workers Brittany Harrison and Jennifer Grubb

What are microaggressions? a comment or action that subtly and often unconsciously or unintentionally expresses a prejudiced attitude toward a member of a marginalized group (such as a racial minority); also : behavior or speech that is characterized by such comments or actions. (from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microaggression)   “You aced that test because you are Asian”  Not participating in hair and makeup night because these products won’t work on me.

What to do if you say a microaggression? 1) building micro proficiencies – be vulnerable this is not about you, apologize without explanations. 2) self care – find time for your own personal processing.  “I have not developed my racial muscle yet” Inquiry vs. defensive response. 3) honor the other’s feelings. Again is not about you. Consider confrontation as a gift, they are helping you learn. They’re not crazy or wrong. Our reality = our experience. 4) own that the microaggressions happen – it is a fact of life, ignoring is not seeing the whole person.