Stephany Pineda Cardoso Discussion 5

Microaggressions are verbal, behavioral, and environmental indignity remarks that communicate derogatory messages of marginalized groups in our society (Sue, Capodilupo). I have experienced microaggressions because I am a woman. Though I am shy at first, I would describe myself as being sweet and bubbly, always smiling and having a lot of energy. I think this in part has caused some adults to look at me as if I were a child, and adding that I am a woman makes me more of, “oh how cute”, because of this I am not taken seriously. I developed my personality because of my experiences. I have learned to cope with my challenges by filling up my day with even more energy and smiles. I’d like to think my personality is not over the top though, I’m just the right amount because I am very cool and relaxed, but for many this is enough to downplay me. Growing up in a culture that highlighted my lack of ability to blend in, led me to constantly doubt myself and what I was capable of. This thought combined with the microaggressions I have received because of my gender have made me at one point internalize the opinions of others. It was not until my accounting teacher in 12th grade asked me to go to their office to tell me I needed to stand up for myself, and not let “these kids” doubt my knowledge. I cannot clearly describe the feelings I felt, I cannot pinpoint to the situation she saw me in, I can’t even remember how I felt, because I had normalized this behavior towards me. I walked home the day confused, she had seen something that I did not at the moment but somehow, I felt empowered. What is the correct way to stand up to a microaggression? How can I be sure it is a microaggression?

I would say I have many privileges. Although there is a lot of discrimination and prejudice in New York City, I have had the opportunity to finish high school and go to college. Additionally, BMCC has tried its best to provide their students with what they need to be successful. Thankfully, if I ever find myself in need there is a food pantry and even counseling center. This not only gives me privilege of many people around the world, but people in NYC too. Many who did not finish high school or are currently enrolled in college are having very difficult challenges. I am in a country where food is abundant to me, and where I have a roof over my head with heat. On top of this I have a desk where I can quietly sit with my 11-year-old sister and do my work. In my point of view the most powerful tool I have is education and comfort. I can use my knowledge and education to educate others about our current situation. I have tried my best to explain our current situation to adults around me who do not know the history of America’s current challenges. Having comfort in my own home helps me develop my skills to keep working towards social justice. I am in the process of starting my own business and this will help me build future schools for children to understand what I think is most important, understanding their self-identity.