Microaggressions are verbal behaviors that create feelings of uncertainty, inferiority, or marginalization even though no offense was consciously intended (Laureate, 2011). A few years ago, I visited a store with several designer purses with the intent to purchase a mother’s day gift. As I walked around the store, the clerk chose to follow me down the aisles and watch me. As I was deciding between two purses, she approached me with an additional option. She said, “I know you are deciding between those two purses, however here is a more affordable option for you.” I was extremely disappointed in her comment because she assumed I was unable to afford the purse for my mother. Prior to her approaching me with another purse, we didn’t hold a conversation about finding an affordable purse. She also chose to follow and watch me without saying hello as I entered the store. I was also angry because she followed me around the store as if she thought that I was going to steal from the store. According to Dr. Sue (Laureate, 2011), microaggressions often contain an insulting message and causes severe psychological stress or harm.
Dr. Sue shared that studies in social psychology indicate that the most accurate assessment of reality of what has occurred comes from people who are the most disempowered (Laureate, 2011). As I reflected on microaggressions, I thought about how detrimental and damaging it can be on ones self self-esteem. If I was a young child and the microaggression in the store occurred, I may began to think that I wouldn’t be able to afford nice gifts for my mother or that being followed in the store was acceptable.
The murder of George Floyd has impacted my personal perception of the effects of discrimination, prejudice and stereotypes on people. We should all be treated equally regardless of our race, ethnicity, etc. George Floyd, who was African American, was killed by an officer this week. As I watched the video of George Floyd pleading for help to breathe, I was truly heartbroken. There have been countless murders of African Americans by police and as a result several protests have initiated. Many protestors are demanding criminal charges to be brought against all of the officers involved in the death of George Floyd. I hope that there is justice for George Floyd and the senseless murders cease.
Laureate Education (Producer). (2011). Microaggressions in everyday life [Video file]. Retrieved from http://class.waldenu.edu
Lady J's Blog 
Jacquia,
The video of the office kneeing on George Floyd was very upsetting. I also hope there is justice for George Floyd and his family and everyone that experiences racism. There have been protests throughout the country and now in other countries. Some protests have been very violent with destroying their own towns, fires, looting stores, etc. which also makes me sad. We all need to come together to create change and be a voice to eliminate social injustice.
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Jacquia,
I too was upset yet again over the death of another African American Man named George Floyd. This unnecessary loss of life could have been avoided if forceful restraint from the police was not done. A Spike Lee movie named, “Do the Right Thing” was released in 1989 showing the police using excessive force killing an African American Man without cause. When will such injustice cease?
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