Tier 2

Create Affinity Spaces for Racialized Students

Goal: Establish a voluntary affinity group for students that meets regularly with support from a Student Support Worker or staff advisor to provide a safe, culturally affirming space for connection.

Action:
Establish voluntary, student-led or staff-supported affinity groups where students of color can gather in culturally affirming spaces without needing to explain or defend their experiences. Connect with your Student Support Worker or regional staff for collaboration and support in setting these up appropriately.

Impact:

• Strengthens sense of belonging and emotional safety

• Reduces racial stress and isolation

• Supports identity development and peer connection

Normalize the Purpose of Affinity Spaces Through Communication

Goal: Develop and share clear communication with students, staff, and families about the purpose of affinity spaces, highlighting their role in supporting healing, affirmation, and equity within the school community.

Action:
Clearly communicate to students, staff, and families why affinity spaces exist - emphasizing that they are about healing, affirmation, and equity, not exclusion.

Impact:

• Reduces misunderstanding and defensiveness

• Builds school-wide understanding of equity-based supports

• Reinforces the school’s commitment to inclusion and anti-racism

Review resources for our professional learning, as adults:

• Why People of Color Need Spaces Without White People