On this past Monday morning I was a victim of racial microaggression. My supervisor prepared breakfast for her team. She made eggs, potatoes, sausages and flour tortillas. There are only two African Americans in her group and the others are Hispanics. When we both asked if she had hot sauce, she replied “Is hot sauce a black person thing because you all eat it with everything”. I immediately got upset and walked back to my office. I ate my food then sent her an email asking her if I could speak with her when she had time. About an hour later she came into my office and closed the door. I explained to her how I was bothered by her comment at breakfast. She said that it is just a figure of speech and that I do not have to be so sensitive. I then told her that referencing things to one’s ethnicity can be offensive. She then apologized and indicated that it was never her intentions to offend me. On Tuesdays morning I went into work and gave her the DVD and asked her to listen to Dr. Derald Wing Sue presentation. Later that day she came into my office and thanked me for sharing the video because she did not realize how racial comments can have an impact on a person’s psychological development. She asked if she could use the CD at out next staff meeting so that everyone can see how the smallest remarks can be offensive to others.
This week I have learned that I have to be cautious of my choice of words when speaking with people in general. I do not want to say anything that would cause harm to anyone even if it is unintentional. My supervisor’s comments allowed me to understand that I must not stereotype people because it can have an impact on one’s self esteem. It is very hurtful and disappointing when you are a victim of microaggression. I do not want anyone to go through that experience so I will think before I act or say anything that is harsh to others. I will treat others how I would like to be treated.
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