Let’s talk about race, because not all racial aggression looks the same.

Sometimes it comes in the form of a backhanded compliment, an assumption, or a comment like, “Where are you really from?” Other times, it’s blatant discrimination, racial profiling, exclusion, or threats.

The difference matters, but so does understanding the impact. Some people genuinely don’t recognize their own biases, while others know exactly what they’re doing.

Take a look at this chart and tell me: Have you ever experienced a race-based microaggression that someone tried to pass off as harmless? Let’s have an honest conversation in the comments.


Special thanks to Clay Banks for title image.

16 responses to “Micro vs. Macro: Matters of Race”

  1. Renee C.

    Philadelphia, PA

    Relatable!

    “I don’t see color” has always been an interesting statement to me. I want people to see my humanity, absolutely, but my experiences and culture are part of who I am, too. Acknowledging difference doesn’t have to mean treating people differently.

    1. It’s such a cop-out, just as safe as voting independent 😭

  2. Kevin Lambert.

    Houston, TX

    Honest question: How do we help someone recognize a racial micro-aggression when they genuinely believe they’re being harmless? I think that’s where some of the most important conversations need to happen.

    1. I think simply having this conversation is enough to open their eyes to how their words affect the person that they are speaking to. Honest conversation conversations about race need to be had especially here in the United States.

  3. Alicia M.

    Charlotte, NC

    I’ve heard “You’re so articulate” more times than I can count. A compliment is a compliment, but sometimes it’s the surprise behind it that makes you stop and think. Why was my intelligence unexpected in the first place?

  4. Nicole F.

    Baltimore, MD

    I would love to see more people discuss this at work, especially during hiring and performance reviews. Bias isn’t always an obvious insult. Sometimes it’s a pattern in who gets opportunities and who keeps getting overlooked.

  5. Andre J.

     Los Angeles, CA

    Intent matters, but accountability matters, too.

  6. Brianna S.

    Washington, DC

    The real question is whether we’re willing to listen when someone tells us we’ve crossed a line.

    1. Excellent point!!!

  7. Janelle W.

    Chicago, IL

    “Where are you REALLY from?” Whew. Some people really don’t hear themselves.

    1. Theeeeee AUDACITY! Right?!

  8. This is so good! i need to post this in my work lunchroom smh.

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