We’ve all gone through this right? The accusatory stares, clutched purses, and white women creating as much distance while you’re minding your business on a morning walk (which happened to my partner and me this morning). I’ve had my fair share of microaggressions, and I feel like this is a topic I can speak on! So what is microaggression?

According to an article written by Loyd, A. B., Kurum, E, Racial microaggressions are defined as “brief daily verbal, behavioral, and environmental slights and indignities directed toward Black Americans, often automatically and unintentionally”. ¹

The statistics tell the story: 67% of Black girls and 60% of Black women report experiencing these racial microaggressions. And to add to that, the research shows, internal consistency at baseline for microaggressions at school/work was 0.70 for girls and 0.74 for women, and for assumptions of criminality at baseline, it was 0.76 for girls and 0.80 for women. These numbers are very high, and display the consistency of these negative interactions.

And let’s be clear, it IS aggressive. It may be “micro,” but it’s a constant barrage. According to the research, Racial microaggressions are defined as “brief daily verbal, behavioral, and environmental slights and indignities directed toward Black Americans, often automatically and unintentionally”. And the fact that they are often unintentional, does not lessen the impact.  

The statistics tell the story: 67% of Black girls and 60% of Black women report experiencing these racial microaggressions. And to add to that, the research shows, internal consistency at baseline for microaggressions at school/work was 0.70 for girls and 0.74 for women, and for assumptions of criminality at baseline, it was 0.76 for girls and 0.80 for women. These numbers are very high, and display the consistency of these negative interactions.

So, what do we do when we’re faced with this? When we’re out here, just trying to live, and we get hit with that subtle (or not-so-subtle) disrespect?

Here’s what I’m learning:

• Acknowledge Your Feelings: Don’t let anyone gaslight you. That feeling you have? It’s valid.
• Coping Strategies:
  • Positive thinking. Fill your mind with positive affirmations. This research proves this method of coping is effective.
  • Distraction: Sometimes you have to move on, and put your focus on something that brings you joy.
• Seek Support: Talk to someone who gets it. Share your experiences on this sit. This community is being built for you, so that you know that you are not alone.
• Educate (If You Have The Energy): Sometimes, it is needed, but remember, you are not obligated to teach anyone.
• Set Boundaries: Protect your space. Know when to walk away.
• Self-care: Prioritize your well-being. Your peace matters. Utilize the tools discussed in previous posts on this site.

Self-Preservation is Key:

We have to protect ourselves. We have to prioritize our mental health. When I talk about self-preservation in the face of microaggressions, I’m talking about actively safeguarding your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. It’s acknowledging that constantly being subjected to subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) forms of racism takes a toll. It’s recognizing that you have a right to peace, joy, and safety.

Systemic Change:

We must keep fighting for a world where these microaggressions are a thing of the past. But until then, we have to take care of ourselves. Microaggressions aren’t isolated incidents; they’re symptoms of a larger system of racial inequality. Systemic change means addressing the policies, practices, and cultural norms that perpetuate these inequalities.

Keep pushing, keep strong. Peace and blessings!