"Jest w tobie coś magicznego, moje dziecko!". Doświadczenia mikroagresji w autobiograficznych narracjach kobiet z niepełnosprawnością

Abstract

The article explores manifestations and forms of microaggressions towards women with disabilities. The analysis is based on autobiographical-narrative interviews with women activists and (self-)advocates with disabilities. Microaggressions are defined as attitudes and behaviours, often subtle or unintentional but full of prejudices, that are expressed in seemingly meaningless and harmless ways. The ephemeral nature of microaggressions make them difficult to identify, both for the perpetrator and the person who experiences them. The author claims they are a form of violence, often invisible. They usually occur in a variety of everyday situations: in public spaces, in the street during a casual interaction, when using public transport, in institutions, or during a visitto a medical care center. They can manifest themselves in a variety of ways, from the asking of invasive questions about one's disability, to the physical incursion into one's private space - such as touching without warning, suddenly grabbing a person's arm, or pulling, etc. Continued exposure to this type of behaviour can have negative consequences in individuals lives. Cumulatively, they cause a drop in self-esteem, anger and frustration.