“You’re so lame.” “So-and-so is crazy.” “You’re so articulate,” as a compliment to a person of color. “I don’t see color.”
These comments can be characterized as microaggressions: subtle, often unintentional slights that communicate a negative message to people based on their identity.

Comments like the ones above are just a few examples among many that can be invalidating or offensive. While a single comment may seem minor, the cumulative effect can be significant, leading to stress and a sense of being “othered.” By understanding their potential impact, we can all contribute to a more inclusive environment.

You can learn more by watching this brief video, which portrays the significant influence others can have on a child’s life.

This resource is featured in our September 2025 REACH newsletter.