Posts

Why Racial Affinity Groups?

/in , , /by

(A PDF version of this post is available here:)

Affinity groups are developed in corporate and non-profit organizations to strengthen diversity and inclusivity efforts. They are homogenous support groups composed of people who share common interests or experiences (Indeed, n.d.).

In clinical and community settings, homogeneous affinity groups are similarly designed to offer a safe space for people to support each other in learning and healing situations. They foster interpersonal connections in pursuit of a broader unifying vision. While affinity groups may form around common needs or behaviors (e.g., single parenting, substance abuse, survivors of domestic violence), they also form around key identities (gender, sexual orientation, race) and offer a safe space for members to examine the elevation or subjugation associated with the social locations of their identities (Watt-Jones, 2010).
Read more

Women and the Body Experience: Anger, Aggression, and Anxiety

/in , /by

Anger

From the time we are born, women are subjected to cultural messages. They’re taught about how to control their anger and aggressive feelings. These messages come to us from our families, from institutions, and through the media. Our bodies become repositories for these messages. Holding our anger inside and denying our aggressive feelings leads to anxiety and physical ailments. As a result it seems as if our bodies, not the socialization experience, betrays us. Read more

Racial Literacy

Racial Literacy Consultation Group

/in /by

Racial Literacy Consultation Groups: Professional Development for Helping Professionals
Information about upcoming groups are available at Racial Literacy Groups.

Racial Literacy

Racial Literacy

The Racial Literacy Consultation Group aims to strengthen helping professional’s capacity to understand and respond to racial dynamics. Internalized racial oppression, racialized sexual fantasies, racial identity concerns, colorism, privilege and disempowerment impact interpersonal connections. Being able to honestly examine race-related issues enhances personal and professional self-confidence. Read more

Can You Hear Me?

/in /by

“We love each other but we’re always bickering. I can’t stand it.”

“He doesn’t hear a word I say!”

“We have a huge communication problem: I have to yell in order for her to hear me.”

“I tell him what I need and he just goes ahead and does what he wants, as if I haven’t said anything at all.”

Breaking or Making the Relationship

Are any of these words familiar? Whether at work or at home, communication problems can damage relationships. Destructive patterns of speaking and behaving undermine love and trust, interfere with sound decision-making, and breed unhealthy conflict. Strong communication skills, on the other hand, enable people to hear each other, support healthy decision-making and help manage and resolve conflicts in both personal and professional relationships. Read more