“It Was Just a Joke, Stop Being so Sensitive”: Exploring Stories of Microaggressions as a Manifestation of Anti- Black Racism Within York Region Catholic and Public Schools

The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences and challenges of Black students enrolled in the Ontario Public and Catholic education system, specifically for students in York Region. The research study focused on racist microaggressions as a form of Anti-Black Racism and the impact it has on Black students residing in a predominantly white regional municipal community in Southern Ontario, Canada. In gathering and highlighting their stories, I hope to theorize the factors underlying Black students' experiences within the elementary and secondary education system in York Region. Specifically, the study has the potential to shed light on the use of racial slurs and microaggressions, as expressions of racial discrimination and Anti-Black Racism.