Module 2: Taxonomy of Micro-aggression

To inherit of the unconscious and unintentional biases (prejudices, stereotypes, and beliefs) from parents, grandparents or relatives are common in the society. They are sometimes minimized as simple cultural missteps or faux pas. You might know them better by definitions as, “insensitive statement” or “dumb things people say.” Usually they’re aimed toward minority groups: “You don’t sound black,” or “You’re Asian, so you must be good at math.” The idea is that it’s hard to face a steady stream of dismissive language, from people who don’t realize they’re doing harm but get defensive if they’re called out. They are behaving in micro aggressive way.

In this chapter we will more fully describe several forms of micro aggressive behaviours and mechanisms by which are they delivered (forms, mechanism and recognition/deconstruction of micro aggressive statements).