How Exactly Did You Get Here: Tokenism & the Macro Microagressions

Racist microaggressions remain a pervasive reality in art museum culture, subtly reinforcing systemic inequities and exclusionary practices. These seemingly small but harmful actions—whether through dismissive comments, biased assumptions, or tokenizing gestures—permeate interactions among staff, artists, donors, and audiences. From underrepresentation of marginalized communities in leadership positions to the hypervisualization of artists of color in collections and exhibitions, microaggressions perpetuate the dominance of Eurocentric narratives while alienating those who seek inclusion. Often masked as unintentional or inconsequential, these behaviors reflect deeper institutional biases and hinder efforts toward genuine equity and inclusivity. Addressing and dismantling these patterns is essential to fostering an environment where all voices are valued and respected within the arts.

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