Microaggressions are an insidious form of racism (or any -ism) because they are frequently unconscious and often perpetuated by people who think of themselves as progressive and inclusive. The lesson we all need to internalize is that racism is systemic and ever-present, and one doesn’t need to be actively or aggressively racist to cause lasting damage.
I deliver this article to you as an able-bodied-heterosexual-cis-white-woman who seeks to be an ally and supporter of all races, cultures, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. I am also acutely and uncomfortably aware that my privilege can and will blind me despite my best intentions. I accept and believe that intention is not good enough.
Racial_MicroaggressionsshortVersion“I believe that white progressives cause the most daily damage to people of color”
An excerpt from White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo
I found this PDF in my search for a clear and concise explanation of Microaggressions. It is an excerpt from a larger article entitled Racial Microaggressions in Everyday Life, originally published in American Psychologist in May-June 2007. The full article may be accessed here.
Take care always,
