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:

  1. What Did You Say? Responses to Racist Comments

  2. Pocket Guide to Probing Questions

Until next time,

Your favorite Chief Diversity Officer,
Dr. B.

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If you would like to book me for a Responding to Microaggressions workshop for your organization, contact me for a free 30-minute consultation.

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Amber Benton

Dr. Amber Benton (she/her/hers) is an educator, diversity/inclusion/equity (DEI) expert, and intergroup dialogue facilitator. She is an advocate for healthy workplace cultures with over a decade of professional experience. She has served as a Chief Diversity Officer for the past several years and holds master’s and doctoral degrees in education.

https://www.amberbenton.com
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TOOLKIT: POSTERS FOR TRAINING

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SHOULD YOU RESPOND?