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Unseen Barriers: The Reality of Microaggressions in Academia

Unseen Barriers: The Reality of Microaggressions in Academia
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Author(s): Gabrielle F Miner Jacques (Knox College, USA), Alan Liu (East Texas A&M University, USA), LaVelle Hendricks (East Texas A&M University, USA), Dimitra J. Smith (East Texas A&M University, USA)and Anthony Harris (Prairie View A&M University, USA)
Copyright: 2026
Pages: 16
Source title: Microaggressions Faced by African American Faculty in Higher Education
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): LaVelle Hendricks (East Texas A&M University, USA), Dimitra Jackson Smith (East Texas A&M University, USA)and Delarious O. Stewart (East Texas A&M University, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/979-8-3693-9914-9.ch013

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Abstract

This chapter examines the impact of microaggressions in academic spaces through an intersectional lens, emphasizing how race, gender, class, and other identity markers shape unequal experiences. While academia often assumes access to knowledge, it frequently fails to act on it, allowing microaggressions to persist and go unchallenged. These subtle forms of discrimination (e.g. verbal, behavioral, and environmental) reinforce systems of power and negatively affect mental health, academic success, and a sense of belonging, particularly for people of color. This chapter highlights microinterventions as effective tools for disrupting bias and fostering inclusion. It calls on faculty, staff, and administrators to share responsibility in creating safe learning environments. Despite recent rollbacks in DEI policies, academic institutions must remain committed to equity, ensuring all students have the opportunity to thrive without the burden of navigating prejudice alone.

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