There are many things that individuals may or may not notice right away. Sometimes we don’t realize what just happened within our surroundings, or the train of thought hits us later on. Microaggressions are one of these things. There is a sense of hesitation and anxiety that can overcome us when we witness microaggressions in front of us. Should I say or do something about it? Should I jump to intervene in the situation? What should I do at this moment? What can I do? These are the questions that came to mind when I was reading through the chapter about microaggressions by Derald Wing Sue (2010).
It can be difficult to speak about microaggressions to other individuals because they may have not experienced one, or they are not fully aware of what is considered a microaggression. I will say that I have never experienced any type of microaggression, but I know individuals who have experienced them or seen them happen. Whenever someone I know tells me these things, I can’t fully contribute or have the same opinion as them about the perpetrator. I understand where they are coming from because, as individuals who are part of a minority, we know that there are ridiculous narratives about us that depict us as outsiders who don’t belong with everyone else. I learned from the readings that many White Americans’ view of racial reality within the country is that racism is not as prevalent, whereas people of color believe that racism is still prevalent. In regards to this, I think that it depends on the type of environment you surround yourself in, what media you consume, and the experiences of interaction.
Something that stood out to me within the reading is that people of color have a difficult time responding to microaggressions because, if they do respond to it, that response can place them in or give into the stereotypes that people of color are aggressive, defensive, ill-mannered, etc. In turn, that can redirect how they are perceived within society (making it seem like the stereotype is true). To be able to comprehend the foundations of microaggression theory, it is important to have conversations and dialogues about how microaggressions present themselves within a situation and what can fall under the umbrella of microaggressions. It can help bring more awareness to other individuals about microaggressions and how damaging they can be to individuals.
What personal experiences have shaped your understanding of microaggressions, and how have they informed your interactions with others?
I think this is a very important conversation to bring up. Microaggresions can be seen in our everyday lives, and I think it is very important we fully understand exactly what a microaggression is and the intent of one. I feel as if conversations about microaggressions are not brought up much, so it is really important we continue to educate ourselves and others!