Connect with others through the Affinity Group Work-on-Site Program
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen community and inclusion on campus, the Office of Equity Transformation, in partnership with UM Libraries, has introduced the Affinity Group Work-on-Site Spaces program. This new initiative provides supportive environments where individuals from systemically marginalized and underrepresented groups can gather to work, study and connect.
What is an Affinity Group?
Affinity groups bring together individuals who share a common identity or lived experience. This may include, but is not limited to, race, Indigeneity, gender, sexuality, disability, chronic health conditions, newcomer status, first-generation university students, family structures and religion. Groups may also reflect intersectional identities and lived experiences.
The group is tied to one’s personal identity rather than membership to a specific club or organization.
About the program
The program sets aside dedicated times for specific affinity groups to gather in supportive spaces for study and quiet work. These sessions are designed to foster connection, mutual support and empowerment, helping participants strengthen their sense of belonging within the UM community.
Sessions will take place in the Brown Lab at the Elizabeth Dafoe Library, coordinated by the Office of Equity Transformation. Each session will be two hours and will be facilitated by a host who will welcome participants, lead introductions and explain the format. Sessions will conclude with an optional reflection period, giving participants an opportunity to share progress, challenges or insights.
“The Affinity Group Work-on-Site Program is about reimagining spaces at UM to empower and support people to form community rooted in their personal identities,” says Tina Chen, Vice-Provost (Equity). “We know finding time in busy work and study schedules to interact with others can often be a barrier to community building, which is why this program brings people together in an informal setting to work alongside others with shared lived experiences. We look forward to welcoming faculty, staff and students to the various sessions.”
Program details
Students, staff and faculty are all welcome to participate!
Registration is not required. Simply show up at the designated time with your work/study materials or laptop, prepared to work alongside members of your shared community.
Flexibility is built in: Individuals can arrive or leave as needed, provided that they do so respectfully and without disruption.
The Dafoe Library is fully accessible, with universal design toilets rooms. The Brown Lab has fluorescent lighting.
The program schedule is on the Affinity Group Work-on-Site Spaces webpage.
Have questions?
Find more information on the webpage, including:
- Guidelines and expectations of participants
- How to sign up to host an affinity group session
- How to share your feedback
For additional questions, accommodations or support, please contact the Office of Equity Transformation at equity@umanitoba.ca.