A microaggression from my past that I remember is an example of micro insult. It happened while I was in college working on my bachelors. I had a friend that was from China; one day her and I went out to lunch at a fairly known restaurant. When they waitress came to take our order, we asked her about one of the specials on the menu. She looked at my friend and said to her "Well it has rice so you should like it!" This comment simply implied that because she was a Chinese that anything with rice would be acceptable. We were so shocked and appalled by the remark that we got up and left.
This experience made me realize how rude and ignorant people can be. To stereotype someone based on ethnicity is so rude. This made me take a hard look and examine myself as to not to stereotype or discriminate anyone for any reason. Prejudism and discrimination are so hurtful, but unfortunately I don't think some people realize they are doing it.
Alisa
ReplyDeleteDo you have examples of similar situations where you felt comfortable in responding to the peron committing the microaggression? What is the difference between when you choose to address the person and when you choose not to. I typically respond when the discussion group is small and the chances of me walking away with hurt feelings is low. Maybe, I will respond more often now.
I would have felt the same way, and left as well. Personally myself I just can't imagine saying something like it to a person. I think its just rude. Thanks for sharing your story.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your story. I would have been shocked as well by the comment the waitress had made. It's great that you got up and left. Did you consider speaking to a manager about this behavior?
ReplyDeleteI am shocked by the rude and ignorant comment that you and your friend received. I would hope that by now, those types of comments would cease beacause our culture is becoming so diverse.
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