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Microaggressions— Nov. 19, 2025

Microaggressions are brief, everyday interactions and behaviors that demean, disrespect, or communicate hostility towards people from marginalized groups. The perpetrator is often unaware that they engaged in negative behavior, though lack of awareness is not an excuse for harm. Isolated microaggressions may seem small, but experiencing frequent microaggressions can undermine individuals’ sense of belonging and increase anxiety.
Some examples of microaggressions are:
  • Assuming that a student’s acceptance into the school is based on something other than their academic ability.
  • Excluding or dismissing a racial, ethnic, or cultural experience (i.e. ignoring a holiday or belittling a trauma).
  • Commenting on a person’s English language abilities (e.g., “You speak English so well”).
If you witness a microaggression occur to someone else, provide affirmation to that individual to show them that they are seen and valued. Consider also addressing the microaggression in the moment or afterwards with the perpetrator. A positive approach can often work well. See resource links below for approaches you can take.
If you are experiencing microaggressions, we encourage you to speak with someone with whom you feel comfortable and safe. This could include: an academic advisor, faculty advisor, supervisor, human resources representative, or Student Support & Case Management(SSCM). As a reminder, the CEAE JEDI Committee has an anonymous feedback formon our Inclusive Excellence page. Submissions are sent directly to the Department Chair and the JEDI Committee Co-Chairs.
Additional Resources and Information:
References
Garcia, Gina A, and Jennifer Crandall. “‘am I Overreacting?’ Understanding and Combating Microaggressions.” Higher Education Today, 6 July 2018, .
Murray, Teri A. “Microaggressions in the classroom.” Journal of Nursing Education, vol. 59, no. 4, 2020, pp. 184–185, .
Sue, Derald Wing. Microaggressions and Marginality: Manifestation, Dynamics, and Impact, Wiley, Hoboken, NJ, 2010.