The microaggression in this situation was that the photographer implied that I was not the mother based on what my daughter and I look like.
Learning from this situation you do not want to assume anything about people. Society accepted the fact that Caucasians can adopt black children or have children from a black man, but when the "black " woman has a child by the white man it's not her child. Is this the dominant culture taking its course?
My sister explained to me that people do not know what I looked like as a child therefore do not be upset, mad, or angry when people make comments. The best thing is now my daughter likes to yell THAT'S MY MOMMY!
The most disturbing part about the scenario that you described is the fact that an assumption was made without any consideration that the child being photographed was your daughter. Here again, the subtle level of prejudice is manifesting itself without any regard for how either of you would feel in this situation. If the photographer felt embarrassed, he more than likely was aware of his thoughts about you and your child prior to getting started. People have preconceived notions about others, especially when they come in contact with children who might possibly be of a blended race. Is this unfair and hurtful? Yes, it is! :( Halle Berry candidly discusses- in several interviews- the hardships that she had to endure as a result of having a Caucasian mother and an African American father. These hardships left her feeling hurt and deeply distressed as a child. Dr. Sue calls this level of entrapment a, "Catch 22." ( Laureate Education, 2011). Subsequently, Halle Berry's psychological dilemas continued throughout her career path as an African American woman in Hollywood.
ReplyDeleteAt some point, society has to come to grips with the idea that dominance and oppression is not conducive to the progress of our nation. In addition, the majority is no longer the majority-but simply a mere microcosm existing within a prodigious world of color and culture.
Laureate Education (Producer) (2011). Microaggressions everyday life [Video file]. Retrieved from https://class.walden.edu
Your story is unfortunately one that seems common in our society. It would seem as if they people would not be so forward in speaking their prejudices. We have come a long way with race but yet we still have a ways to go. I am thankful as educators that we have the opportunity to help bring change to our society by impacting families and children . Your family is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteHello Brittney
ReplyDeleteWe have to keep in mind that some people have very small minds and jump to conclusions without even knowing all the details. Just keep in mind that we just have to overlook people like this and not let it upset us, simply because there are people like this everywhere, and we have to be the better person because of it. Thanks you for sharing.
Brittney,
ReplyDeleteThat was a terrible assumption for the photographer to make. It's disturbing that things like this happen. There are many families that are made up of mixed backgrounds. It is unacceptable for anyone but especially as a professional photographer to make that assumption. I hope that out of this situation the photographer learned to be more mindful of what their words imply.
Thanks for sharing
Danielle
Thanks Ladies for your feedback. Just like I stated to Rachel, we should not judge a book by its cover but first know the contents the book has to offer.
ReplyDelete