A microaggression is defined by Merriam Webster as “a comment or action that subtly and often unconsciously or unintentionally expresses a prejudiced attitude toward a member of a marginalized group (such as a racial minority)”. Common examples of microaggression I hear all the time at are “you don’t act/talk black” or, when the lights go out or “where’d *insert darkskin poc name* go?” These statements themselves are extremely problematic especially coming from the white students. The initial statement that a black person does not “act or speak black” pushes the stereotype that black people act or speak un-intelligently compared to their white counterparts. These statements usually get pushed aside or are ignored by a person’s friend or even the target. If one of your friends or you even overhear it you should attempt to call them out in the nicest way possible: educating the person. By educating your peers and friends about racism we can make Centaurus a more inclusive and comfortable place for students of color.

If you would like to send in any story of an experience you’ve had in Centaurus pertaining to racism, sexism, homophobia, classism or others please complete this anonymous form for The Warrior Scroll.