| "We did not land on Plymouth Rock, Plymouth Rock landed on us" |
Discrimination is a hellhound that gnaws at Negroes in every waking moment of their lives to remind them that the lie of their inferiority is accepted as truth in the society dominating them. Martin Luther King, Jr. |
Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions
I was in my office rearranging health records when a European American man walked in and asked for an employment application. This gentleman was applying for a maintenance position, and he was standing near my desk waiting for me to address him.
A European American salesman enters the office, scans the room and immediately looks at the applicant and said “I would like to speak to you” the applicant said “why do you want to speak to me” the salesman said “aren’t you the director”? The applicant pointed to me and said “she’s the director”. The salesman looked sheepish as his face turned red “oh, oh yes how are you” before he could finish I said “I am very busy at this time, leave your card and I will contact you when and if I find the time".
I am African American woman in a room with a European American man, I must be a secretary or clerk and he must be in charge in his mind’s eye. I felt disrespected and invalidated for a moment. I have lived as an African American in these United States for sixty years, and not too many things surprise me about being black in America.
The racial microaggression; he was verbally and physically unintentionally communicating were insulting messages that reflected his view of superiority.
The observation this week opened a door to a new understanding of the effects of; discrimination, prejudice, and/or stereotypes on people’s prejudgements. I think before I speak to those of other cultures. This week’s observation has given me sensitivity to the desensitized attitude that this dominant culture has shared with me, and I allowed myself to believe that my remarks and subtleties were alright. I have prided myself on being open minded and fair, until this week. I have a lot to think about.
Sauda,
ReplyDeleteWOW, isn't it funny when some people think that certain people can not or should not be in certain places at their job.
I think we all should think before we speak. We have to set the standards better for the younger generation and we have to do it together, all races should be involved.
Sauda!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE THIS!!!
The photographs you chose and the words you selected to describe you thoughts was outstanding! You really had me at the pictures!
Great work!
Hi Sauda,
ReplyDeleteI too love the quotes and images you chose to use, your blog was very powerful this week!
It is so unfortunate that people still fall victim to microaggressions, the example that you shared shows how offensive and demeaning some people's "casual" comments can be. As Dr. Sue said, these microaggressions are still occurring because of our socialization and the fact that we are socialized into a society where racism (personal and institutional) exists. I am glad that we are gaining awareness on how to recognize microaggressions; it is definitely making me think about what I say and how I am talking to others. Like Lori above said, we must be able to set a good example for the future generation, I would even add to set a good example for our colleagues and others around us!