Affinity groups support identity development. The ability to uncover and explore common experiences by identity strengthens self-esteem and supports students in finding affirmation, confidence, resilience, and the means to be in solidarity with others. For identity-based affinity groups that bring together under-represented segments of our school population, groups build a network of support through seeing and sharing that ‘you are not alone.’ For identity-based affinity groups that bring together dominant identities of our school population, groups build capacity to see how to apply how social privileges can be navigated to support social justice. Through the work achieved in affinity groups, members feel empowered to engage deeply with other groups and in mixed-identity spaces.   

An affinity group is a group of people who share interests, issues, a common background, and offer each other support. People who make up an affinity group share a common identifier, for example, race, gender, religion, sexual identity, family status, etc. Affinity groups allow members to explore their experience of this shared identity through facilitated conversations which expands personal capacity to understand self and to build authentic relationships cross-culturally. The ultimate goal for an affinity group is to support the development of a healthy sense of self within that identity so that members will feel empowered to engage deeply with others in the wider community. 

An alliance group is a group of people who have a common commitment to a group of people who share a common identifier, for example race, gender, family status, or sexual identity. Alliance groups are for individuals who identify as part of the identifier group and for those who support and solidarity with people who hold that identity.   

Facilitators structure a space where participants are invited to share their personal, family, and community experiences and to examine the world around them. Through activities and discussions, participants ask questions, find answers, and develop their voices. 

To the contrary, affinity groups foster strong communities and school institutions. They help participants to identify and explore issues, both personal and social, that may otherwise go unnoticed or unexplored by the school. By providing a space to exchange ideas, ask questions, and problem solve, affinity groups support affirming and celebrating what is both unique and shared within our community.  In addition, affinity groups create what we refer to as a “critical mass” of people who share a common experience, which supports and strengthens self-esteem. 

The term segregation has strong negative connotations in our country and a historical and present-day understanding that is counter to the purpose of affinity grouping. Affinity groups are about congregating since they support the building of community – first as a member of the affinity group and then as a member of the greater mixed-identity community. This enforces our desire to be an identity conscious community. 

Contact Terri S. Jackson, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at jacksont@fxw.org.