A microaggression is a subtle interaction or behavior that intentionally or unintentionally expresses bias toward an underrepresented group. In this month’s DEI-in-Motion, WTS-Boston’s Diversity Committee looks at ways these microaggressions may occur and options to consider when responding.  We have provided a definition and example of microaggressions in the workplace that are harmful and merit a response and include examples of professional and appropriate responses.

Microaggressions are often committed by well-intentioned people who are unaware of the hidden messages being communicated. It is important to understand that one’s intent of the message can be different from the impact of what was said. Microaggressions may seem small but can have a negative impact on someone’s experience, physical health, and psychological well-being. Overtime, if not addressed, microaggressions can ultimately diminish a sense of belonging or inclusion in the workplace. Microaggressions can fall into three categories:

• Microinvalidation: Communications or environmental cues that exclude, negate, or nullify the thoughts, feelings, and/or experiences of certain individuals or groups.
• Microinsult: Verbal and nonverbal communications that subtly convey rudeness and insensitivity that demean a person's identity.
• Microassault: Explicit derogations aimed towards minorities, characterized primarily by verbal or nonverbal attacks that are meant to hurt the intended victim and usually the easiest to identify.

Reactions to consider based on research:

1. Immediate response: Calls out transgressions in real time to directly address incident.
2. Delayed response: Addresses the matter privately and offers opportunity for explanation on why it was offensive (intent vs impact of statement).
3. No response: While it can be emotionally draining to confront the situation, choosing to “let it go” is a valid option.

The WTS-Boston Diversity Committee wants to raise awareness of the types of microaggressions that can be experienced and share what to do when you encounter them in the workplace.  For continued learning resources on microaggressions, examples, and guides to use for responding, see our website.

Sources:

How to Respond to Microaggressions - The New York Times (nytimes.com)

When and How to Respond to Microaggressions (hbr.org)

What Is A Microaggression? And What To Do If You Experience One. : Life Kit : NPR

If You’re Not Sure What Workplace Microaggressions Look Like, Here Are 7 Examples (forbes.com)

Why many Black employees don't want to return to the office - CBS News

10 Microinsults And 5 Microinvalidations Women Of Color Are Tired Of, Are You Guilty? (forbes.com)

Language Matters: Considering Microaggressions in Science - PMC (nih.gov)