- Describe at least one example of a microaggression which you detected this week or remember from another time. In what context did the microaggression happen? What did you think and feel when you observed the microaggression or when you found yourself as the target of a microaggression?
It is sometimes hard when working in a diverse, low income area like I do, not to use stereotypes. Last year during a parent teacher conference with a Hispanic parent, the ELL teacher, and interpreter, and myself. We were talking with the parent about how we could best support them in getting the child’s homework completed. It had not been turned in for several weeks. The ELL teacher implied that perhaps a family member or friend who lives with them would be able to help. After the suggestion was given in Spanish, the parent made a puzzled face and let us know that there were no other family members living with them. Often in our district, several Hispanic families live together in small apartments. The ELL teacher was making the assumption that, because they were Hispanic, there were other people living with them. While I didn’t know it at the time, this was a microaggression.
- In what ways did your observation experiences this week affect your perception of the effects of discrimination, prejudice, and/or stereotypes on people.
Unfortunately, discrimination and prejudice are still very prevalent in our society. Turning our backs on them and pretending they do not exist will not solve the problems. We can spread the word of acceptance and being mindful of others, but perhaps the best thing we can do is model respect for others in a non-stereotypical way, and teaching kindness, acceptance, and open-mindedness to our students and children.
Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteIt is unfortunate to know that prejudice and discrimination are still around in our society. I believe you are correct in saying we should do our best to model for the children, and society.
Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting how understanding the concept of migroaggression has helped us identify that the choice of words or the words of others can be offensive to others. The example you gave regarding the Hispanic child is your classroom was most definitely and example of racial microaggression. She assumed that because the child was Hispanic that his household was filled with people. You cannot make assumptions or prejudgments about people. It is best that we as educators get to know people for ourselves despite of the labels and prejudgments that are placed on them by society.
Rebecca,
ReplyDeleteSometimes as professionals we do not realize the interpretation of our words until they have come out of our mouths, then we wish that we can take them back. I am guilty of this as well. I would never offend a parent purposely but have done so in my line of work as a counselor. Actually I feel this week’s assignment has opened my eyes to past encounters where I didn’t realize I caused a migroaggression. I feel sometimes it is easier to recognize when you are on the receiving end. I am glad to receive this week’s lesson because I am now more aware.