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CBI community members practice yoga under the pavilion.
In a world that can feel overwhelming, finding spaces where we can simply be—free from judgment and filled by love—is not just a luxury but a necessity. Racial affinity spaces provide a unique and essential opportunity to come together, connect, and heal, particularly for all the members of our community who have been kept to the margins.
Community members can “participate” without being invited to the group by developing a practice of noticing and encouraging affinity spaces.
As we come to understand the value of affinity spaces, we are able to raise them up as pillars of practice, a way to course-correct for our racialized societies where we are taught some bodies are valued more highly and are given access to much and other bodies are devalued and receive blocked access.
Affinity spaces create belonging as a natural occurrence due to a shared sense of understanding—with less of a need to explain and more of a chance to experience. If you know, you know. Shared experiences and understanding create a comforting and empowering environment to find strength and support.
What do affinity spaces offer to those on the periphery? For example: what does it mean to be white and be “excluded”?
Compassion – the desire for suffering to end
Curiosity – awareness that there is more to learn about the shared experience of all who are pushed to the margins
Generosity – putting others’ needs and comfort above your own
Gratitude – awareness of privilege (in this case, the tendency to be centered)
Insight – attention to the ways we can each use our privilege to provide for another
Through shared stories, traditions, and practices, affinity spaces nurture our social identities, allowing us to explore and affirm who we are while cultivating the qualities of who we will be. White affinity spaces in the service of equality are powerful reflection spaces as well. Love, compassion, acceptance, and support within all affinity spaces are crucial for our well-being, providing a foundation for growth and healing.
Did you know that CBI hosts two ongoing affinity spaces?
Monthly BIPOC meditation (virtual)
Annual BIPOC retreats (in person)
Thursday, August 15th 7:15 pm-8:15 pm
In celebration of our CBI community returning to campus for the first in-person open access (donation-based) programming since the pandemic, we have invited BIPOC members to circle up. Join CBI Executive Director, Danae Laura at the Gallery Patio on campus for tea and conversation.
Fundraising Goal: This month we aim to raise $500 in support of CBI affinity spaces. Your donations contribute towards the programming, hosting, and marketing to create these safe spaces. Thank you for considering a donation as part of your practice.
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