Here is a media presentation by the bestselling author Derald Wing Sue explaining what microaggression is, how it manifests itself, how it impacts people, and what can be done to address it.
Recalling a personal experience of verbal microaggresion, that occurred just last week that left me feeling quite uncomfortable, something of an insult:
True, teachers all over are not paid as high as the other professions, but I believe sitting at home and doing nothing will not get me even the little that I get. More than the money, the teaching job brings a sense of achievement which cannot be compared to any other profession. I felt her superiority complex as a qualified MBA, able to get much higher remuneration than a low paying job of a nursery teacher, belittle me, leaving me in a ‘catch -22’, not knowing how to react, whether to ignore it and suffer the consequence or to raise the issue. “Microaggressions is cumulative in nature where one act adds to another” ((Laureate Education, 2011). Similar statements by her in the past, added to this, made me difficult to cope with this issue, leaving me spiritually sapped.
Human mind is so quick to categorize people based on the stereotypes or misinformation that are perpetuated in the society. Society needs to begin to look at the moral, spiritual connectedness with each and everyone. We need to ensure accurate exchange of information in our interactions to overcome bias and develop interconnectedness. Let us together join in the journey to become a fair, just and humane society.
Deepa,
ReplyDeleteThis is a great example how teachers face microaggressions almost every day. Although our profession is rewarding in many ways, it is still not appreciated enough. Teachers do have the most impact on children's lives as they grow up, but unfortunately they often feel their efforts are not recognized and respected.