​More About "Intent" vs. "Impact:" While driving your car, if you hit a pedestrian, and injured or killed them, you surely didn't "intend" to cause harm. But, you did and the impact on the pedestrian far exceeds your intent or sorrow.

Want to Learn More? Contact Jan Garbosky to receive upcoming dates for 2-hour docent-led tours of the Museum of Man's "Race: Are We So Different?" exhibit including a workshop on microaggression.

​If You Commit a Microaggression: When you’re even slightly aware you may have committed one OR if you’re confronted about it, do NOT be defensive. Listen. Learn from the wrongdoing. APOLOGIZE—just as you would if you hurt someone another way. That you didn’t intend to hurt them, doesn’t matter. That they were hurt by your words or action is what matters. Our faith calls us to be kind & compassionate. 

​Microaggression of the Week:  You’re so articulate (to a person of color who shared a reflection during service.)  Message: It’s unusual for someone of your race to be well-spoken, speak English so well. INSTEAD: Comment on the power of the speaker’s words, the importance or impact of the ideas presented, or the picture their words painted in your mind.

Microaggressions are brief verbal and/or behavioral actions whether intentional or unintentional that communicate hostile, derogatory, or negative slights and insults that people of color (POC) endure every day—but usually aren’t noticed by white people (non-POC) who commit them. First UU POC report microaggressions happen often on our campuses causing pain and feelings of disrespect and attack. Microaggression of the Week:  “I don’t see color.” Message:  Race has no meaning. Racism doesn’t exit.

We have an "interesting" four years ahead of us so why not become a beacon of love & light by joining the nationwide movement for progressive liberal religion and wearing a Standing on the Side of Love t-shirt? There are many styles and sizes available along with bumper stickers, lapel pins and more. At many events, vigils, protests, rallies and other actions you'll see your fellow UU's in their sunny Standing on the Side of Love t-shirts. You are hereby heartily invited to join in! Shop for Standing on the Side of Love gear or learn more about Standing on the Side of Love.