Microaggressive Intersectionalities in Higher Education

• In Event: Multiple Perspectives on Higher Education Inclusion

Abstract

This paper qualitatively explores microaggressive intersectionalities that occur for employees in higher education using intersectionality and microaggressions as the theoretical framework. Critical discourse analysis reveals that microaggressions were simultaneously experienced along the lines of race, gender and role in the institution. Women shared experiences around racial battle fatigue, invisibility and de-professionalization. Across the data, there was a salient assumption around male leadership even when women held positions of leadership. Repeatedly marginalizing women faculty of color through discourse was evidence of the structures of the sociopolitical context that maintain academia as a predominantly white male space. The paper concludes with implications for practice, policy and future research.

Authors

• Kathryn S. Young, Metropolitan State University of Denver

• Myron Anderson, Metropolitan State University of Denver