Recently, Michelle Obama has been in the news after two congressmen made public statements about her that were offensive. Some may say that these statements were racially motivated due to the language used against her. I’m not extremely familiar with the amount of press coverage that past First Ladies have received and so I did a brief amount of research before making this post. Wives like Mrs. Kennedy, Mrs. Reagan, Mrs. Clinton, and Mrs. Bush were all noted for their public outreach and power while in office. However, while researching press coverage about these women, I did not come across articles that demeaned the physical appearance of these ladies, but for Michelle Obama, it will be part of her legacy as a First Lady. From the electoral races of 2008 to now, Mrs. Obama has consistently been the butt of appearance jokes.
For a photo gallery:http://www.thegrio.com/politics/michelle-obama-and-the-angry-black-woman-stereotype.php
Some may not think much of animated photos or comments here and there. Some may not even categorize these actions as racism. While there may be disagreements about these actions, at the end of the day, it is safe to say that these actions,words, and photos are extremely hurtful and insensitive. Many deal with micro aggressions daily, but never know how to put into words. They are everywhere from the classroom, cafeteria, and our private friend circles. For those of you not familiar with the term microaggressions, read below:
‘Microaggressions’ is a word coined by psychiatrist Chester M. Pierce, meaning “brief and commonplace daily verbal, behavioral, or environmental indignities, whether intentional or unintentional, that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative racial slights and insults toward people of other races.”
Microaggressions, like racism, may be around for a long time to come. However, finding the courage to stand up when someone does something hurtful to you is the first step to correcting a wrong. Take a look at the article below to see how microaggressions have been affecting the Obama family lately.
Black in the Purple Bubble 