Microaggressions

Micro Aggression, these two words seem contradictory. One would think that a more fitting phrase would be “macro aggression”, as aggression arguably connotes; large, abrasive behaviour, forcefulness and audacity. “Micro” however means extremely small, so how has this seemingly nonsensical word made its way into our vocabulary? Perhaps because it is not so nonsensical when you look into its meaning.

Microaggression has been defined as “verbal, behavioural, and environmental indignities that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative racial slights and insults to the target person or group” (Harvard Business Review 2020). Dictionary.com defines microaggression as “a subtle but offensive comment or action directed at a member of a marginalised group, especially a racial minority, that is often unintentionally offensive or unconsciously reinforces a stereotype”. With these two definitions, it’s clear to understand the basis of the noun. It is the subtleties of what is said, the aspect that is “aggression”.

What makes it so painful is the coyness of it, the instinctual bag grab when you pass a black boy in a hoodie. The back-handed compliments from your white contemporaries, that are so assured that taking offence to their comment is preposterous.

“You’re beautiful for a black girl”

“You’re so well spoken for a black girl”

“Do your parents speak english”

“Back in Africa, did you live in a mud hut?”

Though those examples seem extreme and may shock, many black people have reported hearing such comments and questions. What’s devastating as a black person is second guessing as to whether you should be offended. Questioning whether you’re overreacting, and having to google said comment to really make sure you’re not crazy. Then to your dismay, seeing forums with thousands of other ethnic minorities consolidating your visceral reaction...yes it was indeed a microaggression.

There are many articles and blogs which one can read informing on microaggressions and giving suggestions on how to handle or respond to them. However, why does the onus for all the “victims” rather than tackling the problem or the ideas at their root. Should we instead examine these beliefs and stereotypes, thus bringing awareness to people’s unconscious thought patterns which cause microaggressions.

If we take “You’re beautiful for a black girl” for an example, we see there is an undertone that says that black people are inherently less attractive than their white counterparts. Some may argue with this, on the basis of the comment being harmless despite its ignorance. However, given the standard of beauty that is portrayed in the media; thin pointy noses, and silky long hair, we see that there has been little room for acceptance, let alone praise of black features.

With this in mind, it is also important to acknowledge that there have been notable efforts by organisations to be more visually inclusive and diverse in their advertisements and communications. Most can agree that we see more ethnic minority models in campaigns and a broader range of black “looks” that make their way to our screens. Moreover, a “Microaggression” is a term that more people outside of the black community are beginning to understand and thus recognise. This journey is continual and is predominantly around education and questioning biases and stereotypes. Diverse visibility from influential corporations such as Nike and Adidas is great in changing public perceptions on beauty standards, but shifting the use of microaggressions requires more than this.

So what can be done on an individual level?

Microaggressions come from biases and stereotypes that have been indoctrinated in early socialisation onwards. Honest pondering and questioning with one’s self on why certain ideas and beliefs are prevalent. Why does it make me feel uncomfortable to the point of clutching my bag when a black boy in a hoodie passes me? Understanding where these behaviours come from and what connotations one has subscribed to is key in breaking down the microaggression.

Lastly, perhaps simple cognition questioning can help us all do better. For example, ask yourself 4 questions:

1. What do I really know about this person? - There may be no basis for the assumption whatsoever.

2. What have I been told historically that’s making me feel or act this way? - Is it really true?

3. Why am I holding tight to this narrative, rather than educating myself through research and open conversation? - Often, all that is necessary to break down stereotypes is actually examining them.

4. How would I feel if I was in the other person’s position, would I take offence? - Empathy is a critical way to reach better understanding