Step 7: Seek External Support

A target of micro-aggression does not have to go through the micro-aggression alone. The facilitator shares all the ways in which the participants can find external support when they have experienced a micro-aggression. Mention the overview below (Sue et al., 2019) and discuss more relevant options, preferably written on a flip chart or whiteboard.

The facilitator discusses each form of support and offers the participants concrete places/people to turn to. The facilitator can also ask the participants which forms are available to them, and how the facilitator/organization can help make more available (10 minutes).

• Alert leadership: Ask to speak to a manager or someone in charge after experiencing a micro-aggression.
• Report the Incident: Share your experience in person or online.
• Find counseling: A therapist or counselor who is competent in the type of micro-aggressions you are experiencing.
• Turn to your community: Spiritual, religious, community leaders.
• Buddy system: Choose a friend with whom you can check in and discuss your experiences, who will validate you.
• Join a support group: A place with people with similar mindsets where there’s space to process your experiences.