The Philadelphia Affinity Group Network seeks to cultivate authentic, inclusive, intersectional spaces, shaped by and for educators who identify as people of color. These affirming and supportive spaces, rooted in an asset-based understanding of diversity, will support educators in navigating and improving their school environments and will be connected to a larger network to build alliances and address systemic issues.
Each affinity group will be led by an affinity group facilitator who proposes an affinity group that is appropriate for their context. The affinity groups will meet at least monthly. Activities during affinity group meetings can include: building a supportive community through heart work & connection; providing professional ideas, support, advice & connection; identifying retention challenges in their districts; and, when feasible and safe, advocating to address those challenges. Affinity groups will also have access to a community-building fund for their affinity group.
What do the Philadelphia Affinity Group Network Facilitators do?
- Philadelphia Affinity Group Network Facilitators seek to cultivate authentic, inclusive, intersectional spaces, shaped by and for educators of color.
- Facilitators create affirming and supportive spaces, rooted in an asset-based understanding of diversity, which support educators in navigating and improving their school environments and are connected to a larger network to build alliances and address systemic issues.
- Facilitators support their peers by forming an affinity group in their context starting September 2024 until at least June 2025.
- Facilitators will receive support in the form of a monthly leadership coaching session, three network-wide events (including a program kick-off taking place May 31 - June 1, 2024), and a professional learning community with other affinity group facilitators to build skills, share ideas, and work through common problems
- Facilitators fulfill additional leadership responsibilities, including affinity group participant recruitment, agenda creation and monthly meeting facilitation.
- Facilitators receive a $2,000 stipend for their commitment.