Microagression in the Workplace

Does Microagression exist in your workplace?

Merriam-Webster defines Microagression as "a comment or action that subtly and often unconsciously expresses a prejudiced attitude toward a member of a marginalized group (such as racial minority)."   “Microagressions are along a continuum  from being very deliberate and conscious to being outside one’s conscious behavior.”    Derald Wing Sue, PhD,  Professor Columbia University.

While they may not always be ill-intentioned and are oftentimes an unintended insult, it is a way an individual’s implicit biases leak out.    Microagressions prevent improvement of workforce diversity and employee productivity. 

Corporate cultures should be proactive in addressing microagression and unconscious bias.  Recognize it when it happens.  Foster communication.  Be inclusive.   Create an environment where employees are comfortable raising issues such as microagression and bias.