Paper Cuts and Power: Navigating Adoption Microaggressions

In this episode, Laurie and Claire delve into the nuanced topic of microaggressions within the adoption community. 

This discussion was inspired by a KAAN (Korean American Adoptee Adoptive Family Network) Conference workshop that Laurie and Claire attended. We want to help bring microaggressions into the light so that we can talk about them, normalize our feelings around them, and give us tools to navigate through them.

Key Discussion Points:

What is a Microaggression?

A comment or action that subtly expresses a hostile, derogatory, or prejudiced attitude (intentionally or unintentionally) toward a member of a marginalized group.

What are Adoption Microaggressions?

These are microaggressions based on identities, relationships, and/or experiences connected to adoption. They often stem from societal misunderstandings or biases about adoption.

What you can expect to learn:

• A clear understanding of microaggressions: What they are and how they impact marginalized groups and individuals.
• Insights into adoption-specific microaggressions: Common phrases and interactions adoptees often encounter.
• An exploration of the themes of adoption microaggressions (Baden, 2016): Including Microinvalidation, Microinsult, and Microfiction.
• Personal stories and reflections: Hearing firsthand accounts of how these moments shape identity and belonging and how we navigate through them.
• Actionable strategies for empowered responses: Practical tools like Boundary Setting, Re-Framing, Educating, Disengaging, and Grounding.

Resources cited:

Naming & Navigating
Adoption Microaggressions
Aeriel A. Ashlee, PhD (she/her) & DeLa Dos, PhD (they/them)
KAAN Conference ~ June 20-22, 2025 ~ Atlanta, GA

Baden, A. L. (2016). Do you know your real parents?” and other adoption
microaggressions. Adoption Quarterly, 19(1), 1-25.

Lu, J. & Tseng, A. (2021, June 1). Verbal jiujitsu, disarming and other tips for dealing
with microaggressions. Los Angeles Times.
https://www.latimes.com/lifestyle/story/2021-06-01/what-is-a-microagression-h
ow-to-address-subtle-racism

Sue, E. W. (2010). Microaggressions and marginality: Manifestations, dynamics, and impact. John Wiley & Sons.

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