When someone makes a remark or shows disrespect to someone because of their race, that is called a microaggression. Microaggressions are offensive acts that can happen in any situation. These can be verbal or even non verbal. Sometimes we may not even know that a question or remark we make is a microaggression!
Here are some examples of microaggressions:
- Telling someone that they behave a certain way because of their race.
- Assuming that anyone of a different race isn’t a citizen of the country.
- Crossing the street to avoid walking by someone of another race.
- Assuming that everyone in a certain race talks and acts the same.
- Telling jokes that belittle or bully another race.
The best way we can understand microaggressions is by looking at real life scenarios. Take a look at Race Scenario # 1 to apply what we’ve just learned!
Race Scenario # 1
With a group of friends or classmates, act out the following scene. Student B must be played by a person of color. After acting out the scene, discuss the following points as a group:
> What is this scenario an example of?
> What was wrong with Student A’s question, “Where are you really from?”
> If someone is curious about someone’s ethnicity, what would be a more appropriate question?
Setting: A high school cafeteria.
A group of students are sitting at a table chatting away. Student B, one of the students, is the only person of color in the group.
Student A: I wish today was Friday.
Student B: Why?
Student A: Because then we’d have pizza instead of the gross salad bar.
Student C: It’s not so bad! Salad is delicious.
Student B: I don’t know. I think I’d rather have pizza, too.
Student D: Cafeteria pizza versus cafeteria salad? I’ll say no to both.
Student C: I’ve never been a fan of pizza, now that I think of it.
Student B: Seriously? Well, where I’m from we have the best pizza that will change your mind with one bite!
Student C: Where’s that?
Student B: Chicago. The home of deep dish deliciousness.
Student D: I’ll definitely say yes to that!
Student A: Wait, you’re really from Chicago?
Student B: Yep!
Student: A: Oh. But where are you really from?
Student B: What do you mean?
Student A: I mean that you look like you wouldn’t be from Chicago. I’m just surprised.
End Scene