How Bias Affects Us and Others
We all hold some degree of implicit bias, whether we’re conscious of it or not. While we may not realize it, bias can affect how we interact with the world around us - from the medical treatment we give, the applicants we hire, and the people we praise. Bias is what often keeps minority groups from receiving call backs for interviews and women out of corporate leadership positions.

The good news is that bias, whether implicit or explicit, can be changed. Doing the work and taking ownership for our own biases is the first step towards creating a more equitable culture.

TOOLS AND RESOURCES TO EXPLORE
Read:
  • Read this article from Maryville University to learn how to identify your biases and uncover steps to overcome them. (10 mins)
Watch:

  • In “The Muslim on the airplane,” speaker and poet Amal Kassir argues that closing the distance between people created by bias and discrimination begins with asking “What is your name?” (15:58 mins)
Listen:
  • Both implicit and explicit bias can show up as microaggressions. Listen to this episode of Life Kit to learn more. (22 mins)
Explore:
  • Take the Implicit Bias Test to uncover your own unconscious biases. This test was developed by psychologists at Harvard University, the University of Virginia, and the University of Washington.

  • This resource from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture helps provide a deeper understanding of implicit and explicit bias.
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