The term “microaggression” is defined as a “brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative racial slights and insults toward people of color”(Negate 2013).
This week the microaggression I was faced with was being asked “What are you”? I was at a childcare conference and I went to the restroom during a break. One of the other participants said to me “your hair is so long and pretty. What are you?” It took everything in me not to ask what she was. I calmly smiled and stated “I am black”. She then stared asking all sorts of questions about my parents and grandparents race. She stated that “there is no way you’re all black with hair like that”. Although people ask me this question all of the time, I had no idea that this was a of microagrression which is a form of racism.
My experience this week affects my perception of the effect of discrimination, prejudice, and stereotypes mostly from a standpoint of thinking about what I say before I say it. So often we make comments to people without thinking them through. Once its said it’s left up to the recipient of the message to determine whether there was an underlined message or not.
References
Heben Negate., 2013. 21 Racial Microaggressions You Hear On A Daily Basis
Retrieved from: http://www.buzzfeed.com/hnigatu/racial-microagressions-you-hear-on-a-daily-basis July 23, 2014.
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ReplyDeleteDeon,
ReplyDeleteWow! What a powerful and emotional experience that had to be for you. Just reading your words makes the advocate come out in my--full force! What ARE you?? Who asks such a question of anybody?? That to me falls under the realm of microassault, as you have to be completely ignorant to not realize how hurtful that question is. To me the terminology she used, sends a hidden message that you aren't even human--unbelievable!! And to suggest that you couldn't possible be ALL black with hair like that, relays a hidden message of white supremacy (I'm assuming she is white). I have to say that you handled this situation with much more grace than I would have. Unfortunately, most people are not privy to the knowledge of what a microaggression is, and probably won't consider such situations in any depth. However, I believe the unconscious mind picks up on them cumulatively, which undoubtedly has a detrimental affect on their psyche. Thank you for sharing your personal experience, and on the behalf of my race, I would like to apologize for the blanket of ignorance that seems to insulate the pervasive nature of microaggressions.
Deon,
ReplyDeleteI cannot believe someone said, “What are you?” There was a better way to ask the question, if she wanted to know. Sometimes people say things and they do not realize they are offending someone. Clearly, the way she posed the question to you, would have been offensive in my opinion. I have traveled to so many places across the U. S. and I have been asked about my culture, accent, and dress attire. Many individuals do not know I am from the south, because I do not talk country, with broken English; like some of the people from my area. They assumed that everyone, especially black people from Mississippi are country bumpkins and we hunt and fish all day. They assume because I dress well, and I keep my appearance up to par, that I must be from the north. These are clear situations of classism and racism. I am happy to know the meaning of microaggression; now, I will improve myself and think before I speak.
Lah-Lah
Deon,
ReplyDeleteI too had no idea these were forms of microaggression. I have taken great interest in learning more about this topic and am shocked at how many times throughout the week I have heard microaggressions being spoken to myself or others. It's hard to bite your tongue and ignore the comments being spoken knowing it is rude and offensive. You did a great job ignoring this women's offensive questions, responding to them in a respectful way. Now having this knowledge however, I wonder if it is better to ignore them when heard or educate others on the harmful effects microaggresions holds.
Deon,
ReplyDeleteI am so shocked that someone would even have the nerve to say this to you. I have been asked if I am from India. Even for the Indian culture. Many people do not realize how words can hurt. Sorry that this happened to you. Thanks for sharing.