I was on the lookout for situations that involved
microaggressions this week, but since I didn’t get out of the house much I was
unable to view any type of situation. I decided to inform you all about an
incident that occurred at the end of this past school year. My principal came
in to observe my teaching methods and techniques. After the observation, I
stopped in his office to discuss what he saw. The discussion went well. He praised
my teaching ability and stated that I was a role model for African American
students in the school because I “made it” in becoming a teacher. I know he
meant this as a compliment, but as he elaborated I got the feeling that he was
assuming that I went through the “typical” struggles in life as an African
American female. I left his office wondering what it was in life that I had to
overcome to succeed in being an educator. I graduated 7th in my high
school and received my bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Even
though my parents divorced when I was 1, both parents were still majorly involved
in my life and I didn’t have to go without the necessities in life in order to
survive. So, what was it in my life where I “overcame the odds”?
This was a perfect example of microinvalidations (Laureate
Education, 2011). He didn’t intentionally try to hurt my feelings, but the
discussion took place in such a way that I left wondering if I was over thinking
the situation. Because of this, I didn’t want to say anything. Plus, I knew he
didn’t mean any harm. The effects of discrimination, prejudice, and stereotypes
can be everlasting. I will always remember this situation, but will never truly
know what was meant by his words unless I ask him.
Reference
Laureate Education, Inc.
(Executive Producer). (2011). Microaggressions
in everyday life [Webcast].
Baltimore,
MD: Author.
Hi Arica, There was a hidden message behind that comment. I believe a lot of times people mean well when they say something, but it could be offensive to some people. According to Dr. Sue, there are ways to prevent unaware bias by getting to know people outside your normal environment. Interacting and learning about different things and people is a teachable moment to decrease bias and stereotypes. As a principal, I believe he should be more aware of diversity among people.
ReplyDeleteThanks for Sharing!
Andrea Cureton
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Microaggressions in everyday life [Webcast]. Baltimore, MD: Author
ReplyDeleteAlthough you are certainly correct, that it was a microaggression that your principal committed - I would take to heart that we are all role models to children and parents. You made it as a human being to a place where you can positively impact children. I made it as a man into a field that is approximately 97% female. When the girls see you in front of the classroom - they can imagine themselves as teachers. When the African-American students see you there, they can likewise imagine themselves as teachers. Ultimately, it doesn't matter who we are or how we got here - but that we present the best possible example to every child that we meet.
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