Microaggressions: Speak Up!
How to Speak up Against Microaggressions
Microaggressions are connected to unreasoned stereotypes, power structures, structural racism, and multiple forms of prejudice. This is a term used for brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative prejudicial slights and insults toward any group, particularly culturally marginalized groups. Because they are often small, common, and sometimes ambiguous gestures or comments, microaggressions are particularly stressful for those on the receiving end, given their ambiguity and deniability.
Just one person speaking up can inspire others to do the same.
Try These
- Assume good intent and explain impact. "I know you mean well, but that hurts."
- Ask a question. "What do you mean?"
- Interrupt and redirect. "Let's not go there."
- Broaden to universal human behavior. "I think that applies to everyone."
- Make it individual. "Are you speaking of someone in particular."
- Say "ouch!"