COMMUNITY
CORNER Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Taft
The Importance of Affinity Groups Recently we had a school meeting to discuss the importance of affinity and alliance spaces in our community. Spending time with others who share the same identifier(s) is a critical component in navigating the Taft community. Affinity groups serve not only as support networks for students and faculty, but also a safe place to explore and discuss various aspects of the Taft student life experience. In this issue, we are highlighting some of these affinity groups that we have on campus for students. These groups are student-led and -run. There is a faculty advisor who oversees each group, but the students organize and structure the meeting and conversation. Each group views their roles differently, based on the needs of the members. I hope you will read on to get to know a few of our affinity groups on campus! —Thomas Allen, Dean of Community, Justice, and Belonging
b MOSAIC AFFINITY GROUP What is your group’s mission statement? Mosaic is an affinity group that provides a safe space for women of color to feel comfortable, loved, and empowered.
What is the overarching goal of the group?
Student perspective: How has this group helped you during your time at Taft? “This group made me feel so relieved at first because I found girls who felt what I felt during my first days here at Taft. This group helped me learn people’s different perspectives and know how I 6
Taft Bulletin / WINTER 2022
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Our overarching goal is to uplift our members by ensuring that they feel heard and seen by all members of the Taft community.