Microaggressions in the workplace are subtle instances of discrimination or harassment. These may be everyday occurrences that contribute to a hostile work environment. They are often far less overt than some forms of discrimination.
For example, decades ago, businesses could declare that they did not want to hire people with a certain ethnic background. That would never happen today because it is an overt form of racial discrimination. Both employers and employees know that it is illegal.
But a microaggression could be someone commenting about how well that person speaks English or how it is surprising that they have such a high level of education. These things are framed as compliments, but they subtly reinforce stereotypes and demonstrate discrimination against that person based on their inclusion in that protected class.
Do people do this on purpose?
In some cases, yes, people certainly do this on purpose. A coworker may know that the statements they are making are racially discriminatory, but they think that they are being subtle enough not to be called out on this inappropriate and potentially illegal behavior.
One thing that you may find, however, is that people who engage in these microaggressions can become quite defensive if the issues are brought up. They may even try to gaslight the victim by claiming that they are reading too much into it or taking the comments in a way that was never intended.
Even in these cases, however, employees may feel that they are clearly being discriminated against and forced to endure a hostile work environment, which is a violation of their rights. If you are in this position regarding racial discrimination, age discrimination, gender discrimination or issues with any other protected class, it is very important for you to know what legal steps you can take.