Affinity groups are informal associations of employees of similar backgrounds and interests who desire to form voluntarily to share ideas and provide mutual support.  They are forums for employees to gather and share ideas about matters that affect their professional careers. Seattle Colleges regards affinity groups as being independent of the formal organization structure and supports the formation of affinity groups, provided the affinity groups:

 

  1. Commit to supporting the mission, vision, values, and strategic goals of Seattle Colleges
  2. Commit to developing a healthy, productive, and equity-minded workplace environment
  3. Commit to inclusive membership, regardless of the race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation of the employee
  4. Commit to following relevant procedures that guide the application and approval process for all affinity groups

The District recognizes that such affinity groups foster development, contribute to the Seattle Colleges’ commitment to diversity, and strengthen networking and unity across the District. Affinity groups are an important resource to the Seattle Colleges in many other ways as well. They provide important feedback to the Associate Vice Presidents of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and other key administrative and faculty leadership charged with stewarding equity, diversity and inclusion policies and practices, and assist with efforts to attract and retain a diverse workforce.

Because of the benefits to the workplace and contribution to the Seattle Colleges’ mission, vision and values, affinity groups are welcomed and provided access to the resources listed in the corresponding procedure.

Companion Document : Pro
Adoption Date : 2020/01/09
Revision Date : 2020/01/09