Navigating Workplace Microaggressions: Empowering Black and Brown Women Against Everyday Bias
Myra McNair
Microaggressions are subtle yet hurtful comments or behaviors that communicate bias towards historically marginalized groups. They are often unintentional but can have a significant impact on an individual's mental and emotional well-being.
Examples of Microaggressions
Racial Microaggressions
An example of a microaggression is when someone asks a person of color, "Where are you really from?" This comment assumes that the person is not a "real" American and perpetuates the stereotype that people of color are foreigners. Another example is when someone says to a Black person, "You're so articulate." This comment assumes that people of a certain race are not intelligent or articulate, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Gender Microaggressions
In the workplace, microaggressions can be especially harmful as they can impact not only an individual's mental and emotional well-being but also their professional success. It's important to recognize and address these subtle yet harmful comments or behaviors to create a more inclusive and respectful work environment. For example, when someone tells a woman of color that she looks "exotic," it reduces her identity to a physical characteristic and perpetuates the notion that people of color are different or exotic. This type of comment can undermine her professionalism and make her feel like an outsider in the workplace.
Impact of Microaggressions in the Workplace
Another example of a microaggression is when someone assumes that a person of color is the "diversity hire," which can make them feel like they are not valued for their skills and qualifications. These types of microaggressions can make it challenging for individuals to feel included and valued in their workplace, impacting their professional success and well-being.
Tips on Handling Microaggressions
Pause and Gather Yourself
When faced with a microaggression, take a moment to pause and gather yourself. This can help you assess the situation and decide on a response that feels appropriate and effective. Remaining calm and composed can also prevent the situation from escalating and help you address the issue in a constructive manner.
Decide When and If to Respond
It's understandable that combating microaggressions can be exhausting and emotionally draining. As a Black or Brown woman, you may encounter multiple microaggressions in a single day, with one study finding that Black women report experiencing an average of 8.7 microaggressions per day in the workplace. Each microaggression can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. It's up to you to decide whether to respond to the microaggression or let it go.
Discuss Feelings with a Friend or Loved One
Talking about how you feel with a friend or loved one can help you process the incident and release the emotional burden. It's also essential to surround yourself with a support system that uplifts and empowers you.
Nurture Yourself
Dealing with microaggressions can be stressful and draining. It's vital to practice self-care regularly to nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. You can do this by taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, engaging in hobbies, or seeking professional help.
Document the Incident
Documenting the microaggression(s) can help you remember what happened and provide evidence if you need to report the incident. You can write down the details of the incident, including the date, time, location, and what was said or done.
Address or Report the Incident
If you choose to address the microaggression, try to do so respectfully and calmly. You can educate the person about the impact of their comment or behavior and explain why it's not appropriate. However, if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it's okay to report the incident to HR or your supervisor. Remember, you have the right to work in a safe and inclusive environment.
Intersectionality and Microaggressions
It's important to acknowledge that microaggressions can impact people differently based on their intersectional identities. Black or Brown women may experience microaggressions that are specific to their race or ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, and more. By considering the intersectional nature of the incident and seeking support from individuals or groups who share similar intersectional identities, you can navigate the everyday struggles of microaggressions.
Conclusion
Employers have a responsibility to recognize and address microaggressions in the workplace to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for Black and Brown women. By practicing self-care, nurturing yourself, and seeking support, you can navigate the everyday struggles of microaggressions, but it's important for employers to take proactive steps to eliminate these harmful behaviors in the workplace.
FAQs
What are microaggressions? Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional comments or behaviors that communicate bias towards historically marginalized groups, negatively impacting their mental and emotional well-being.
How do microaggressions affect Black and Brown women in the workplace?Microaggressions can undermine their professionalism, make them feel like outsiders, and impact their professional success and well-being.
What are some examples of microaggressions?Examples include asking a person of color where they are "really" from or telling a Black person they are "so articulate."
How can Black and Brown women handle microaggressions in the workplace?Strategies include pausing and gathering oneself, deciding when and if to respond, discussing feelings with a friend or loved one, nurturing oneself, documenting the incident, and addressing or reporting the incident.
What is the role of intersectionality in understanding microaggressions?Intersectionality acknowledges that microaggressions can impact people differently based on their multiple overlapping identities, such as race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ability.
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