Talking about ethnic diversity in the workplace Talking about ethnic diversity in the workplace Examples of racial microaggressions: what you might say and what might be heard. “There is only one race, the human race”, “I don’t see colour.” “From my perspective, ethnic minorities have the same opportunity as anyone else if they work hard enough, Message: and race and ethnicity do not play a role in life successes.” I refuse to acknowledge your reality. Message: “I am unable or unwilling to recognize and admit that just by being born a certain ethnicity, I have benefited from certain privileges or advantages that are not afforded to ethnic minorities.” “I’m not racist. I have several black friends.”, “As a woman, I know what you go through as a racial minority.” Asking to someone who is Assuming that people Message: not like the dominant group: from ethnic minorities are I am denying racial biases, “Why do you have to be so foreign- born by asking I am immune to racism loud/animated? Just calm “Where are you from?” because I have friends of down.” Or: “Why are you so or saying “You speak colour, your racial oppression quiet? We want to know what English well.” is no different than my you think. Be more verbal.” gender oppression, I can’t Message: be a racist, I’m like you. Message: You are a foreigner. Please assimilate to dominant culture, leave your cultural baggage outside. 8 9