From reading of articles and watching the media segment this week, I have learned about the meaning of microaggression. Honestly, this was the first time I even seen the word, apparently my Microsoft word as well doesn't even recognize it as one word but as two words micro aggression.
This week, I reflected over my past, present and future only to recognize that these really are everyday indignities that have the intent of being a compliment with no ill-intent. I witness them everyday and often they are towards me.
Just yesterday, I was out with my co-workers, and I complimented each on their style of dressing, "oh cute top", "oh nice shoes". My co-worker said to me, oh that color looks great on you, you know because you have dark skin. Now that I am aware of this term, I do not think my co-worker's intention was to raise an issue about my color, she thought she was making a compliment in return to the compliment I extended to here.
This weeks observations have changed my perception on the different types of discrimination, racial profiling and stereotyping. I have become more observant to everyday conversations around me, as i reflect on these everyday situation I am cognizant of the damaging effects that this can cause. Although microaggrssions occur often with no ill-intent, we must be aware of our own personal biases.
Kalisa,
ReplyDeleteI think you bring up a very interesting point when you mention that Microsoft Word doesn't even recognize the term, "microaggressions." I feel this describes how often most people think of issues dealing with everyday indignities that have simply become an accepted way of thinking. Without many people talking about this, other than Dr. Sue and his colleagues, the term hasn't even been used with enough regularity to people to know what it means. I'm with you, I hadn't heard the term before this week either. Thanks for the post!
Best,
Parker
I haven't heard the word before until now either. That's a shame too that so many people are unfamiliar with it. Especially since many of them are probably the biggest offenders of using microaggression against someone.
ReplyDeleteKalisa,
ReplyDeleteUntil this week, I never knew or had knowledge of the term micro aggression. I like how you pointed out that Microsoft word or any spell check recognizes the word. I can see how you deal with these micro aggressions, just by simple words or comments that people unintentionally say. I am the same as you, I really look into what people say now , knowing these terms and what they mean to people. Thanks for your post.
Kalisa,
ReplyDeleteGreat post! Do you think that you would have considered it a microagression if the person has added "beautiful" to their comment about your skin color?