Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions

            This week’s observation of microaggression occurred yesterday morning and the statement came from a family member. The family member who made the statement never appeared to be that type of person. I was so surprised, but I made sure to make her aware the statement she made was a prejudice remark. The scenario: I was going to have my hair braided because I wanted less work when I workout.  I knew I would be at the hair solon for at least nine hours, so I acted a family member to drive me to the shop. After arriving at the shop, the family member said, “These Jamaicans just come here and take all of your money just to braid your hair”. I made the statement, “It is an African Hair Braiding shop. She said it is the same thing.  I had to remind her that we are African Americans. I asked her how she feels when others say that all black people are the same. I did not expect an answer; I just wanted her to think about what she said and why she said it.

            This week’s observation allowed me to realize that prejudice exists even when the person is unaware. I also realized the people who experience prejudice and microagressions on a regular basis still have prejudices. They still have prejudice and microagressions against the same type or even race of people. I understand that prejudices run deep and the prejudices are planted deep inside of most people based on society.