For me, communication and context matter more than labeling certain interactions as microaggressions. People come from different backgrounds, and sometimes misunderstandings happen without any harmful intent. I think it’s better to focus on open dialogue and assume good intentions rather than immediately viewing comments through a negative lens.

That said, I do see the value in being aware of how our words and actions might affect others. Even if I don’t fully agree with the concept of microaggressions, I believe it’s important to practice respect, empathy, and understanding in how we communicate. At the end of the day, I think giving each other grace and focusing on honest, respectful discussion helps create a more genuine kind of inclusivity.

Reference: WTCSystem. (2020, May 26). Understanding Microaggressions. YouTube. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=e4N50b76cZc 

-Charlotte

To me, that connects to the idea of microaggressions because it’s not something super obvious or aggressive, but it still sends a message. It feels like people assume there’s only one correct path to success, and if you didn’t follow it, then something must be missing. Over time, those kinds of comments can get frustrating because they make you feel like you have to prove yourself more than others. It also made me realize how important it is to be aware of what we say to people, even if we think it’s harmless. Small comments can still have an impact depending on someone’s experience.

Working at a high school where there is a strong majority culture, I have experienced moments where students assume that all Hispanic cultures are the same. As someone from Puerto Rico, I’ve noticed that students often group all Spanish-speaking cultures together without realizing the differences between them. For example, there have been times when students use certain Spanish words or slang assuming they have the same meaning everywhere, when in reality, those words can mean something completely different in Puerto Rico compared to other countries like Mexico or Cuba. In some cases, the meaning can even be inappropriate or offensive depending on the context. While students usually do not intend harm, these assumptions feel like a microaggression because they erase the diversity within Hispanic cultures and overlook important cultural differences.

On the other hand, I have also seen microaffirmations in the classroom. There was a moment when I was able to explain to students how language and culture vary across different Hispanic communities. Instead of dismissing it, students showed curiosity and asked questions about Puerto Rican culture and how it differs from others. That interaction felt like a microaffirmation because it created space for my identity to be recognized and respected. It also helped students become more aware that culture is not one-size-fits-all.

This experience has taught me that even small assumptions can impact how included someone feels. At the same time, small efforts to learn and acknowledge differences can create a more respectful and inclusive environment. As an educator, I think it’s important to continue having these conversations so students understand and appreciate the diversity within Hispanic cultures.

I do not claim my experience matches the scale or harm of what marginalized people endure, but what it has done is open a door to compassion, understanding, and empathy and make me more attentive to how casual talk and shorthand can erase individuality.

With respect to micro-affirmations, I've been in leadership positions since graduating university in the military and civilian worlds. I know it has a name now, but I've intuitively used micro-affirmations throughout my career to recognize effort and excellence in the small things because I've found that they end up delivering results and have large impacts on macro outcomes.