The following are ongoing initiatives and programs under the direction of the Office of Equity and Inclusion.

• New Teacher Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Workshops
• Annual Equity and Inclusion Conference Opportunities
• Lunch and Learn Educational Series
• Faculty Arts and Culture Evening Excursions
• Faculty Affinity/Support Groups
• Consultant Visits and Assessments
• Annual NEMNET (Minority Teacher Recruitment Network) Teacher Recruitment Fair

• Speakers/Invited Guests at Student Assemblies
• Student Affinity Groups, Clubs, Councils, and Exchanges

• Common Ground: Connecting Parents/Creating Community—A parent committee supporting school inclusion initiatives
• Parent Equity and Inclusion Representatives in each Division
• Community Cultural Celebrations

Affinity, Identity, and Community

As we journey to understand ourselves in relation to others, Westminster’s affinity programs in each of the three divisions serve as a community support resource for parents, faculty, and students from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. Affinity group meetings are different from clubs. Unlike student clubs which are open to all who express interest, affinity work is specific to participants identifying as a member of that group through a common identifier or experience (i.e. religion, race, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, family make-up, socio-economic class, etc.) rather than simply having an interest in learning more about a particular group. In this way, affinity dialogue becomes what is known as a “safe space” allowing participants to speak openly within the group session without the pressure to educate others first or to defend one’s identity or experience.

Equity and Inclusion Coordinators cultivate an environment that is welcoming to and supportive of all students and faculty. Each division has a dedicated team of faculty members that lead inclusion programs and affinity groups. For more information, contact Judy Osborne, Equity and Inclusion Education Coordinator.