Quote

"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...
It's about learning to Dance in the Rain"

Author Unknown

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions



Practicing Awareness of Microaggressions
           
            For this assignment, I decided to focus on what I perceived to be intentional and/or unintentional indignities towards others.  I paid close attention when I was grocery shopping this week.  I observed reactions of the cashiers and even other shoppers as customers paid with a food stamp credit card.  When I paid close attention, it was amazing at the different reactions you can detect.  One surrounding customer was making comments to a friend about the type of items that were being purchased.  He noticed that this customer was able to purchase better quality items that he could afford.  He seemed somewhat upset.  Unfortunately, no one knows the personal situation of this individual.  There are absolutely necessary reasons someone would need to accept financial assistance; especially, to take care of their children.  Unfortunately, there are some that may misuse the system.  This can have harmful implications and perceptions on families that truly need this help to survive.  I have reflected on my own thoughts.  I am embarrassed to say there have been times I have wondered how some individuals decide how to use the assistance they receive.  As an educator, I have learned to make every effort not to make presumptions.  Being open to learn about my children helps everyone involved.  This quality should be used in all aspects of life.
            In conclusion, I can see how this type of behavior could lead to discrimination, prejudice, and/or stereotypes on people.  People that make assumptions without full knowledge of the situation may cause distress on others.  It may cause resentment among others, destroy self-esteem, and affect our children.  Adults are their role models.  If they observe their parents talking or acting in a derogatory manner towards others, they may take on these feelings and act the same way towards their peers.