How Microaggressions Reinforce and Perpetuate Systemic Racism in the U.S.

Abstract

The consequences of racial microaggressions are most often discussed at an interpersonal level. In this review, we contend that microaggressions play an important role in maintaining systems of racial oppression beyond the interpersonal context. Specifically, we illustrate how microaggressions establish White superiority in the U.S. by othering people of color (e.g., treating people of color as if they are not true citizens) and communicating that they are inferior (e.g., environmental exclusions and attacks, treating people of color as second-class citizens). We also present evidence that microaggressions play a role in protecting and reinforcing systemic racism. By obscuring systemic racism (e.g., false colorblindness, denial of individual racism) and promoting ideas that maintain existing systemic inequalities (e.g., the myth of meritocracy, reverse racism hostility), microaggressions provide cover and support for established systems of oppression. Overall, we find considerable evidence—from both empirical studies and real-world examples—that microaggressions contribute to the maintenance of systems of racial oppressions in the U.S. We conclude with a discussion of how we might begin to challenge this cycle by increasing awareness of systemic racism and the microaggressions that aid in its perpetuation.

Systemic Considerations in Child Development and the Pursuit of Racial Equality in the United States

“…From a young age, children in the U.S. are taught both indirectly and directly that the norms and values of White people are favored over the customs of other racial and ethnic groups (Ladson-Billings, 1998;Skinner-Dorkenoo et al, 2021;Sue, 2004). These messages create and maintain a system of racial inequality.…”

“…These values even extend to the spaces that we occupy, with people associating more positivity and worth with predominantly White spaces (Bonam et al, 2016;Bonam et al, 2017;Bonam et al, 2020). The aforementioned practices center White people and culture as the norm (or default) and frame all others as deviant (Skinner-Dorkenoo et al, 2021), resulting in strong racial indoctrination in the education system that starts in early childhood (Acuff, 2018;Miller & Harris, 2018;Solorzano, 1997). The establishment of strong positive associations with White culture and norms is worthy of attention because both adults and children have a tendency to accept the status quo as legitimate (e.g., Kay et al, 2009;Roberts et al, 2016).…”