Module 6: Racial Stereotypes, Microaggressions, and Hate Crimes

Intent vs Impact

Over time, microaggressions can have a major impact on people who face inequities and discrimination. Ongoing inequity is often directly linked with not belonging to a dominant culture.

Sometimes when we are called out for saying something offensive or causing harm, we might immediately say:

“That’s not what I meant!”
“I never meant any harm!”
“I didn’t mean to offend you!”
“I was just kidding!”
“I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.”

These are all statements of intent.

When this kind of situation arises, the speaker may want to explain themselves, or they may act defensively. They may want to show that they are a good person who did not mean to cause harm. They may find themselves using a statement of intent like the ones listed above.

Statements of intent distract from the reality that harm was caused to another person. They centre the explanation on the intent of the speaker rather than on the harm experienced by the other person.

Next time, instead of rushing to explain:

Pause

Really listen to how the other person feels

Acknowledge the impact of the behaviour

Resist simply apologizing right away to be done with the situation.

Everyone Makes Mistakes

Part of the journey to becoming anti-racist means constantly learning, unlearning, and reflecting on your beliefs and actions. Making mistakes is part of learning and growing.

Being open to learning from mistakes is essential. When a microaggression happens, it can be helpful to:

• Reflect on what thoughts, words, or actions were rooted in prejudices, assumptions, and judgments. Where did the microaggression come from?
• Understand the impact of the words on the other person, even when harm was not intended. Remember that words can impact people, whether harm was intended or not.
• Continue to learn and be open to the discomfort that arises when biases or stereotyping are evident. Everyone has biases and may engage in stereotyping, and this takes time to change.