Two DEB Events Coming Up This Week
Join us Saturday, September 28 from 10:00–11:30am for our Friends and Family Affinity Gathering in the Upper Gym at 375 Pearl Street. All family members are welcome! As a program whose outcome is to deepen belonging, our school’s family-facing affinity spaces engage connection, create joy, build community, cultivate leadership, and nurture spaces of dialogue and support. What is an affinity group, you might be asking. The answer to that question and much more about affinity groups can be found below.
What is an affinity group?
It is a designated “brave space” where everyone in that group shares a particular identity. This identity can be based on race, gender, sexual orientation, language, nationality, physical/mental ability, socioeconomic class, family structure, religion, etc. Affinity groups can be a place for people in a community to come together, celebrate, connect with each other to learn more about their identities and to feel more connected based on those identities. During affinity groups, participants might share and talk about their experiences or focus on working toward a particular mission or goal.
Are affinity groups like clubs or special interest groups?
Affinity spaces are different from clubs because clubs typically focus on a certain activity or interest that anyone can join. An affinity space is a safe place for a common identity or social group.
Can I see this program at other schools?
See two examples here and here
Who can be part of an affinity group?
People who can speak from the “I” or “we” perspective with that particular group can be a part of it.
How can I support affinity groups I do not belong to?
Affinity groups are only one aspect of creating a diverse and socially just world by creating a brave space for people to build strength and pride. Equally as important are the collaborative efforts between different groups of people toward creating equity for all. Allies are people who do not identify with a certain affinity group but want to support the equal rights of people from that group. Ally work and affinity work are both important aspects of creating social equity.
Aren’t affinity groups just exclusive and divisive?
We all benefit from interactions with people who share common identities or experiences. When you are in the numerical minority of a larger community, these bonding interactions may only occur during an affinity group. During affinity group meetings, people can share freely and without inhibition about their experiences. These groups make them feel more visible and more included in our community and in doing so, enhance our broader commitment to inclusivity.
Source: “Creating Safe Spaces to Explore Identity” Ashley Greene
About Dr. Talusan
Dr. Talusan is a sought-after facilitator, educator, and scholar-practitioner in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Dr. Talusan has more than 25 years of experience in education and organizational leadership, making her an invaluable resource for our community. During the interactive session on September 23, we will engage practical strategies for fostering intentional identity reflection for our work at home and as members of school communities. Dr. Talusan will create a space of shared learning for our work together. This session is part of our ongoing commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice at Brooklyn Friends School, especially as we lead into the family facing affinity spaces. This program is one not to miss. We encourage all families and friends to attend this important event and look forward to seeing you there!