People with marginalized identities are often accused of being sensitive. But what people fail to acknowledge is that such sensitivity or hypervigilance is a learned response to exclusionary culture, inequitable practices, and/or cumulative trauma. It is a survival mechanism, not a character flaw to be frowned upon. —— [Alt text embedded in the image.]
Some of us live this over and over. My entire life since I was a little girl I’ve been told I was too sensitive. How is a two year old too sensitive? Why do we whip sensitive people with these words until they are covered in scars? When I am feeling powerful it’s amazing how that same “sensitivity” sees + feels what offers a breakthrough. So, am I too sensitive or are you blind to my strength?
Sensitivity is relative. If people are unaware and unwilling to acknowledge impact, it's far easier (but not wiser) to point the finger and claim that anyone who is aware or impacted is "too sensitive" Always appreciate your insights Arthur Chan!
This is why allyship is important, as well as the understanding that threats to survival and wellbeing lead to hypervigilance, often fueled by chronic fear. Our responses are rational and demand empathy. And ACTIVE work to dismantle systemic exclusion that necessitates hypervigilance in the first place.
“Your experiences are valid.” Arthur Chan this right here. When we stop centering ourselves in every encounter, we’re able to empathize more with others.
Well said, Arthur Chan. Sensitivity in marginalized groups is often a survival response to exclusion, not a flaw. Recognizing this is crucial for fostering inclusivity.
💯 💯 💯 Spot on Arthur!! NO explanations / reasons or excuses suffice. Simpy put... an A-Hole is A-Hole. Period.
Completely agree! We created Yourequal as an employer-rating platform to help people with marginalised identities share their insights within the community and avoid unsafe workplaces. You can share with the community by leaving an identity contextualised review at https://app.yourequal.space/home/
Your observation is spot on. Many fail to recognize that hypervigilance is often rooted in trauma, including childhood abuse, assault, or surviving in toxic environments at home or work. For people with marginalized identities, what is perceived as sensitivity is often a survival mechanism honed in response to exclusionary and inequitable practices. This heightened awareness is not a character flaw but a learned response to systemic injustices. Instead of dismissing this as oversensitivity, it’s crucial to understand and address the underlying causes, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
You are not "too intense" either.
100% true.. the white people in Indiana taught me how to be hypervigilent.. they also taught me how to be racist... before I moved in Indiana or worked at Johnson and Johnson I had literally no concept of racism other than something taught in history books.. the people of Warsaw Indiana taught me its alive and well.