Affinity Groups
An affinity group is a group of individuals who share a common interest, identity, or goal. Affinity groups at OES are for individuals who share a similar identity and can speak to the experience of being a member of the group from the “I” perspective; they are also open to individuals who want to be allies (acting to support those who have an identity they do not share).
Formal identity-based student affinity groups are supported by the Office of Equity & Inclusion and are usually based on a historically marginalized identity. Some examples include gender/gender expression, neurodiversity, race, and religion. OES affinity groups support members of our community whose identities have been underrepresented or minoritized to provide a space for renewal, dialogue, reflection, and action.
Importance of Affinity Groups
Affinity groups are created to support identity development, cultivate leadership, and build community. These are places where students and adults can develop a better understanding of how their own identity shapes their experiences. By becoming firmly rooted in their own identity, community members are in a much better position to understand other people’s experiences.
Affinity Group Meetings
During opt-in meetings, students and adults gather to share personal experiences, learn about their culture, reflect on their identity development, and support each other in addressing issues that arise for members of their self-identified community. Affinity groups are flexible and based on the intent to gather to offer mutual support and support for all participants to be heard.
Allyship & Alliance Groups
Allyship or alliance groups are groups that are open to people that have similar identities as well as allies (those that would like to act to support those who have an identity they do not share).
OES’s DEIA efforts are inclusive and are not intended to exclude or disadvantage any legally protected group. OES does not consider race, color, religion, disability that can be reasonably accommodated, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, or other legally protected status in admission or employment. OES encourages diversity of thought and critical inquiry while respecting each person’s identity and perspective.