Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional, behaviors, comments, or actions that convey prejudice or discrimination against members of marginalized groups. These small but frequent slights can be verbal, nonverbal, or environmental, and while they might seem insignificant on the surface, they contribute to a larger pattern of exclusion or marginalization.
For example, a Black employee might be told, "You're so articulate," which, though intended as a compliment, implies surprise that a Black person speaks well, reflecting underlying racial biases. Similarly, assuming a woman in a meeting is the one to take notes can be a gender-based microaggression, reinforcing traditional gender roles.
Microaggressions are harmful because they accumulate over time, leading to feelings of alienation, stress, and lowered self-esteem for those on the receiving end. They're often difficult to address because they can be dismissed as misunderstandings or overreactions, making it challenging for victims to call them out without facing backlash.