One example of microaggression that I have detected this week took place right in front of me at work. A little girl was sitting and doing her work with her grandmother right beside her because it was almost time for school to dismiss. Suddenly, another little girl who has been stereotype as being a troubled child came over and shouted out loudly in the girl's face. In defense of her granddaughter, the grandmother replied openly by shouted, 'move away, you good for nothing ugly dirty girl and let fly pitch on you because you are in their category'. By echoing those words the little girl ran to the other side of the classroom. Right there and then the teacher turned around and address the matter. When the little girl that did the act was asked why she did what she had did, she replied by saying, 'I was only playing with her, she is my friend and now I am sad.'
Based upon what I viewed as the microaggression took place, I personally believed that it was a childish act displayed by the little girl's grandmother and as a mother she should not have done that because what if someone else did that to her grand child I am sure she would not have liked it. It was very obvious that she had hurt the child's feelings.
My observation experiences about micraggressions this week has definitely taught me that everyone has feelings and in life we should think before we act and measure the words that are use to speak to others. It has also taught me that I should never ever try to solve a problem when I am angry but rather do so when I feel calm about a given situation.
Latoya,
ReplyDeleteMy heart breaks for the little girl at the receiving end of the comment. It was wrong to assume that she meant harm based on her prior behavior patterns when in her own words she was just trying to play with her friend. Her feelings were clearly hurt. I agree with you that we have to carefully choose our words so as not to hurt others. I highly agree with you that we should not respond to others in anger but wait until we are calmer and can choose our words more carefully.
Latoya,
ReplyDeleteWhat a sad experience for that little girl. Those words were beyond cruel! An adult should know better than to retaliate in such a mean and vicious way. Words do hurt deeply, and what could have been a wonderful teaching moment for that grandparent to give to this child turned into a horrible experience that the child will likely remember for a very long time. So sad. :(.
Hello Latoya,
ReplyDeleteI hate when adults act childish and hurt other children's feelings because of what the children are doing. It is so important to be able to get a child's level and ask why a child is acting or saying what they say. I am glad you handled the situation as well as ask why the little girl made the comment. Pam