Letters to their attackers: using counterstorytelling to share how Black women respond to racial microaggressions at a historically White institution

Many Black women, especially those at historically White institutions (HWI), experience racial microaggressions on a regular basis. Although thought to have minimal impact in isolation, microaggressions can have severe consequences when experienced consistently over time. Among these consequences are anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Students also struggle with Racial Battle Fatigue, alcohol abuse, and negative self-esteem. Using Critical Race Theory (CRT) and counterstorytelling, this paper shares the experiences of Black women with racial microaggressions at an HWI. Data from this study suggest that while students respond in various ways, the most common response is to remain silent. Implications are discussed and recommendations are provided.