Responding to microaggressions

True or false?

A microaggression can amount to discrimination.
  • True
  • False

“Wow, you speak English so well!” 

“You’re pretty good looking for a trans girl.” 

“Being Indigenous, you probably get this for free, right?” 

Comments like these are often made casually. But they’re examples of microaggressions, everyday slights or insults targeting people from a marginalized group. Learn how microaggressions are a form of discrimination, and how you can respond to them.

Content warning

This page describes experiences of discrimination, including racism and homophobia. It may bring up difficult or traumatic memories or emotions.

What you should know

Responding to a microaggression

If you commit a microaggression

Who can help

  • This information applies to British Columbia, Canada
  • Reviewed for legal accuracy in September 2022
  • Time to read: 9 minutes

Reviewed for legal accuracy by

Laura Track, Community Legal Assistance Society

Laura Track

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