As I observed many people this week, I found myself thinking of the many microaggressions that were taking place, although done unintentionally, it made me become very aware of my own thoughts and words.
During a high school basketball game I overheard some ladies talking. I was taken aback at what they were saying, but I did not interrupt as I wanted to see what they would continue saying. The opposing team was warming up before the game started, and one lady made the comment that one of their boys walked somewhat "funny." As the conversation went on, these ladies came to the conclusion that this young man was probably gay because of the way he walked and the way he held a basketball. I was so shocked that someone could make that type of comment about someone they knew absolutely nothing about! As a matter of fact, they had never even laid eyes on this young man! After a few minutes of listening to them go on and on about this young man, I intervened and explained to them they were labeling him and this was a form of microaggression. I told each of them that was unfair to even assume something about someone because of the way he walked! I also explained to both ladies the psychological damage they could do to this young man had he overheard their conversation. After I was done talking, I do believe these two ladies may never speak to me again, but I wanted to make my point known!
A second microaggression I wanted to share was about my husband (I actually discussed it in my discussion posting). Years ago he and I went to a department store. We walked in together, but we split up because he was looking for something in particular. I actually watched a salesperson literally follow him around as if he was going to steal something. She never once followed me, but she certainly made it a point to be in very close proximity with my African American husband. We both were so offended, and I actually told her such. She never once apologized, and we walked out to never return. For me, that type of racial microaggression is totally unnecessary. Just because someone's skin tone is a certain color does not mean they are a thief.
We must be very careful to ensure we do not stereotype people, or become prejudice or show discrimination because of someone's skin color, where they live, or any other aspect of their life.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Friday, November 16, 2012
Perspectives on Diversity and Culture
I asked three different people about their definitions of culture, and they all seem to agree their culture was their race, their heritage, and their traditions. When I asked about their sexual orientation, they seemed shocked because they didn't think that applied to their culture or even diversity. They believed that was one's own choice, and had nothing to do with their culture.
When asked about diversity, one of my co-workers said she believed diversity meant our differences, and how we deal with those. She also went on to say being different doesn't mean it is a bad thing, and we need to teach others about diversity.
As I sat and reflected on culture and diversity, as well as talking with a couple of my closest friends, the topic of differences was brought up as far as couples. I am very traditional girl, and although I don't agree with certain things, I believe everyone should be treated with respect. All children should be made to feel proud of their families, even if they are different.
Being a homosexual couple has been a topic we have not discussed in depth. This has been omitted, and I am sure it is a topic many do not want to even think about. As I previously mentioned, it is not something I agree with, but I never want one of my students to feel ashamed of who they are. A child should never be held accountable for what decisions an adult makes. We, as ECE professionals have a duty to take care of our students, and we should not add damage to them by making negative references about their parents, their home life, or their culture. After talking to my friends and co-workers about culture and diversity, I know I must accept the differences of others, and learn to push my personal feelings aside and dow hat is best for my students. I want students to remember what a positive difference I made, and to never feel as if I made them feel bad for who they are.
Blessings,
Susan
When asked about diversity, one of my co-workers said she believed diversity meant our differences, and how we deal with those. She also went on to say being different doesn't mean it is a bad thing, and we need to teach others about diversity.
As I sat and reflected on culture and diversity, as well as talking with a couple of my closest friends, the topic of differences was brought up as far as couples. I am very traditional girl, and although I don't agree with certain things, I believe everyone should be treated with respect. All children should be made to feel proud of their families, even if they are different.
Being a homosexual couple has been a topic we have not discussed in depth. This has been omitted, and I am sure it is a topic many do not want to even think about. As I previously mentioned, it is not something I agree with, but I never want one of my students to feel ashamed of who they are. A child should never be held accountable for what decisions an adult makes. We, as ECE professionals have a duty to take care of our students, and we should not add damage to them by making negative references about their parents, their home life, or their culture. After talking to my friends and co-workers about culture and diversity, I know I must accept the differences of others, and learn to push my personal feelings aside and dow hat is best for my students. I want students to remember what a positive difference I made, and to never feel as if I made them feel bad for who they are.
Blessings,
Susan
Monday, November 5, 2012
My Family Culture
This is quite an assignment. I actually sat and contemplated what was most important in my life, and nothing materialistic made the list. However, if I had to take three concrete objects, it would be my cell phone, (although I doubt it would work where I was going) because it holds many photos and addresses of those I could keep in contact with; a photo album to help me remember faces; and certainly the most important concrete object: my Bible. I would need this to remain close to God as I know we need to dwelve into scripture daily.
If I had to choose one thing, it would be my Bible. I have my internal memory to look back at pictures and important events in my life. I would feel pretty lost without my phone, but I would manage. I need God's word, and I couldn't leave it behind. His word is a guide for us all, and helps us remember what we should be doing.
As I mentioned previously, my phone would probably not work, and it would be almost useless other than for looking at pictures and addresses. Again, I would have my internal memory to reflect back upon.
As I sat and thought of this assignment, I realized my family is far more important than any concrete object. I love my photos, especially those of my husband and daughter, but those can be replaced. My family, and our God is what is most important.
Blessings,
Susan
If I had to choose one thing, it would be my Bible. I have my internal memory to look back at pictures and important events in my life. I would feel pretty lost without my phone, but I would manage. I need God's word, and I couldn't leave it behind. His word is a guide for us all, and helps us remember what we should be doing.
As I mentioned previously, my phone would probably not work, and it would be almost useless other than for looking at pictures and addresses. Again, I would have my internal memory to reflect back upon.
As I sat and thought of this assignment, I realized my family is far more important than any concrete object. I love my photos, especially those of my husband and daughter, but those can be replaced. My family, and our God is what is most important.
Blessings,
Susan
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