Thursday, 21 July 2011

Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions

I went to a church function about six months ago, and I ended up sitting at a table with a Principal that I had interviewed with awhile back.  We were very amicable and talkative at the table for awhile.  When her husband sat down, she introduced me to him as a teacher that she interviewed awhile back.  She continued to go on and say that I didn’t get the job because I lacked a few qualifications. 
According to Dr. Sue in the video this week, I experienced microinvalidation.  The principal insulted my professional experience.  At the time that this took place, I felt embarrassed and shocked.   I was embarrassed that everyone at the table heard that I was not qualified to teach at her school even though I have my teaching certificate, and I was shocked that a leader like herself would publicly degrade a person. 
The assignments this week helped me recognize my perception as well as others regarding discrimination, prejudice, and stereotypes.  Today I called to reschedule a doctor’s appointment for my son, and it took nearly 30 minutes because the lady did not speak English well. My knowledge of microaggressions kicked in because I did not want to say anything to offend this lady.  I was very polite and very patient knowing that she must have felt embarrassed that she could not understand my spelling of my son’s name.   This week I realized that sometimes we do not think before we speak, and these words can really have lasting effects on a person.

2 comments:

  1. Stacey,
    Excellent Post!!!!! I have been in the same situation not knowing what a person is saying. They would get so frustrated with you and we are feeling the same way, but there's a way to handle yourself in a professional matter. Don't say what you want to say, just take a big swallow with a smile and handle yourself professional. I know it's hard at times but just be real :-).

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  2. Hi Stacey!

    Thank you for sharing!

    I can't imagine the emotions you were feeling when the principal made that comment. This are the very comments and ideas we will work hard to conquer as a result of taking this course.

    Great job!

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