“Don’t Touch My Hair or But You Don’t Seem Gay!: Microaggressions in the Library Workplace”

Authors

Lori Thompson, Marshall UniversityFollow
Lindsey M. Harper, Marshall UniversityFollow

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-2019

Abstract

This presentation broadly focuses on microaggressions, implicit bias, and communication strategies to address these statements. This presentation provides the history and background of microaggressions research and lists some relevant terms to better understand the literature. Next, this presentation examines the overall impact that microaggressions have on individuals on the receiving end of the comments, as well as how it affects those in the LIS profession specifically. Then, this presentation suggests how to respond to microaggressions, including communication strategies for both bystanders and those on the receiving end. Finally, this presentation examines how to best address microaggressions, and notes the importance of validating the lived experiences of people from underrepresented groups.

Comments

Copyright © 2019 Thompson and Harper. All rights reserved.

Recommended Citation

Thompson, Lori and Harper, Lindsey M. “Don’t Touch My Hair or But You Don’t Seem Gay!: Microaggressions in the Library Workplace.” Keynote address presented at the West Virginia Northern Library Network Annual Meeting, Morgantown, West Virginia, May, 2019.