One example of a microagression that has stuck with me was from a cooperate party hosted by my husband's employer at the time. It was held at a Chinese restaurant that was rather expensive. My husband had introduced me to one of his bosses and I thought that he must be an intelligent man based upon how he carried himself and his rank in the company. During the speech part of the dinner, the topic of "Chinese overtime" was addressed. I was mortified! The servers looked appalled at the fact that the man would continue to say the phrase over and over again.
This week I learned that many of the things that offend people are not meant to be malicious. People often talk and do not think about the consequences of the things that they say. Words can hurt people and they can also tarnish reputations. I have been more aware of the things that I have said this week as well.
I become more aware of the words that people have been using including my own. I have always been aware but certain things like this class make more things come to the light. I have been appauled by things I have seen on tv on on my facebook page.
ReplyDeleteJamie,
DeleteI had the experience of your husband and felt like responding in the same way. I think that I hurt so deeply knowing that I have hurt others with my micro aggressions, whether they were intentional or unintentional.
Barbara
I feel that some of the worst microaggressions happen when people have unintentionally said or done something that they had no idea was offensive because it makes it really "hard to swallow."
ReplyDelete