Why Are You So Sensitive?

Navigating Everyday, Unintended Microaggressions

A lively, engaging, and honest look at microaggressions told from a variety of different perspectives—and what we can do about them.

"You look better than me, and I'm a real woman!"
"You're so well spoken!"

"Act like a man."

In her own life and activist work, Billie Lee has realized how painful microaggressions like these can be, even when they come from people whose intentions are good. As a trans woman in the public eye, Billie Lee has been on the receiving end of more than her fair share of microaggressions, but like most of us, she’s been guilty of them too.

In Why Are You So Sensitive?, Billie shares stories of microaggressions she's both received and committed, alongside an all-star list of contributors from different backgrounds including Brian Michael Smith and Jacob Tobia. Psychologist and microaggression expert Dr. Gina Torino provides analysis and advice to help readers better understand the underlying dynamics at play and simple ways to reduce harm in their own interactions.

Dynamic, relatable, and packed with insights, Why Are You So Sensitive? meets readers where they are and provides a vital blueprint for a better, kinder world.

About the Author

Billie Lee is a transgender activist, actress, and comedian best known for her role on Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules. She is currently living and working in Los Angeles.

Dr. Gina C. Torino received her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Columbia University and is currently an Interim Dean for the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences at SUNY Empire. She has published widely in topics such as cultural competency development, microaggressions, White racial identity development, and teaching strategies that promote cultural self-awareness. Dr. Torino and her team provide specialized diversity consultation services to corporate and non-profit organizations. She is the author of Microaggression Theory.

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