how to respond
Last week, I shared how to decide if you should respond to subtle offenses (i.e., microaggressions). If you missed it, you can find it here. But I know some of you also want to know how to respond. Don’t worry! I won’t leave you hanging. Here are some prepared statements to use when you choose to respond to a microaggression:
Be curious.
Example: I’m curious why you think that. Could you share more about your thinking?
Pretend you don’t understand.
Example: I don’t think I understand. Can you explain?
Restate/Paraphase.
Example: What I heard you say is [restate or paraphrase their comments]. Is that correct?
Challenge the stereotype.
Example: You know, that’s a stereotype. And actually, [insert an alternative perspective or facts that prove it’s a stereotype].
Share your own process.
Example: I noticed that you said/did [insert comment or behavior]. I used to say/do that too but I learned [insert corrective language or behavior].
Adapted from Dr. Goodman
Homework
If you would like further reading about responding, check out the following resources:
Until next time,
Your favorite Chief Diversity Officer,
Dr. B.
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