University can be hard enough. Navigating new spaces and people is already challenging, but for ethnic minorities, microaggressions add another layer to study stresses.
Microaggressions are statements or actions that are indirect discrimination against members of a marginalised group. They often go under the radar and aren’t always intended to be malicious, but can manifest as passing comments about accents or assumptions about how a person should behave based on their race.
Students in Kingston often face microaggressions amongst their peers in and around Kingston. Mohammed Farooq, a second-year Pharmaceutical Science student, explained: “In Sainsbury’s and corner shops, they watch what I do to see if I’m trying to steal anything. It makes me feel uncomfortable, and like less of a human.”
Surveys by Universities UK and the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) have consistently found that roughly a quarter (24 %) of ethnic minority students report experiencing racial harassment since starting their course at a UK university.
For some students, microaggressions bleed out into other aspects of their uni life – often masked as harmless banter.
A third-year psychology student who wanted to remain anonymous said: “One of my friends said I look like someone just because we are both black and that really annoyed and upset me.”
Dealing with microaggressions can become mentally and emotionally taxing. Although they are small, over the years they compound, leaving people feeling heavy.
Sammy Cross, a third-year Media and Communications student, said: “Dealing with microaggressions makes me feel like I’m not good enough no matter how hard I try… the way I act and the work I produce will always be critiqued differently than my white counterparts.”
A major Equality and Human Rights Commission found that two-thirds of students who experienced racial harassment, including repeated microaggressions, did not report any incident to their university.
A Kingston University student who wished to stay anonymous said: “I have experienced microaggressions from my lecturer. I feel like he just targets the black girls. If the class is talking he’ll, make it a point that we are the main ones talking and make a joke. It puts us in an uncomfortable position.”
When asked if she would report his behaviour, she said: “I I feel like bringing it up would just make it worse, especially when he marks my work.”
A Kingston University spokesperson said: “Kingston University is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all members of our community. Our policy on preventing and addressing harassment is published on our website alongside clear reporting and support options. We do not tolerate any form of harassment or bullying and all allegations are taken seriously and fully investigated.
“Students, staff and visitors can report incidents including harassment, discrimination, hate crime and microaggressions through our Report and Support online platform, which allows both named and anonymous reporting. This platform is promoted widely across campus and highlighted during student induction to ensure everyone knows how to seek support or raise concerns. We remain committed to our institutional anti-racism pledge with ongoing initiatives to improve racial equity and belonging across our community.
“This academic year, Kingston University introduced a mandatory online course for all new students titled Creating a Culture of Safety and Respect, with staff also completing a training course titled Diversity in the Workplace. This training helps students and staff understand behaviours that contribute to a safe and inclusive learning environment, including recognising harassment, discrimination and microaggressions, and understanding how to report concerns. We continue to develop and strengthen our approach to ensure Kingston University remains a community where everyone feels safe, valued and supported.”