From the course: Communicating about Culturally Sensitive Issues

Managing microaggressions

From the course: Communicating about Culturally Sensitive Issues

Managing microaggressions

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- Have you ever accidentally offended someone? We all have. But when that accidental offense involves a sensitive aspect of someone's identity, the impact can be greater. After watching this video, you'll be able to define what microaggressions are and how to avoid them in conversations. This is crucial because we are often unaware of the impact our words may have on others. Dictionary.com defines a microaggression as, "a subtle but offensive comment or action directed at a member of a marginalized group, especially a racial minority, that is often unintentionally offensive or unconsciously reinforces a stereotype." What is a microaggression to one person might not be a microaggression to another person. So here's a quick story. I'm Caribbean American, and growing up, I had an accent. Now, after years of code-switching, I sound like this, but it still comes out from time to time. On the rare occasion where my accent would come through and people would ask about it, I was always excited to share about my culture. And I remember, one time, in law school, I heard somebody with an accent and I wasn't sure where they were from, and I said, "Hey, I hear you have an accent, where are you from? They found it offensive. So who's right and who's wrong in this situation? Nobody's right and nobody's wrong. It just is what it is. And that's the challenging thing about microaggressions, you're not always sure what people will find offensive. The solution to this isn't a specific strategy per se, it's a shift in mindset. If you commit a microaggression, this is an opportunity for you to learn and connect with the person while rebuilding the relationship. Humbly accept the fact that what you did caused damage, apologize and seek to do better in the future. Since microaggressions are usually unintentional, you might not even know you made a mistake if the other person doesn't speak up. Pay attention to body language. So if you say something and you recognize a change in their tone or body language, that might signal a negative shift. That's a moment for you to pause and get curious. Stop and ask a simple question, "Hey, correct me if I'm wrong, but it seems like something may have changed for you. What am I sensing?" Showing interest and curiosity in the person can demonstrate that your intentions are pure and any impact was unintentional, which can go a long way in mending a relationship.

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