A newer aspect of Marymount’s ongoing initiative to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion is the implementation of alliance and affinity groups during the school schedule in addition to the lunchtime clubs or organizations. Similar to the advisory sessions that occur once each week, these new alliance and affinity groups were designed to familiarize students with other students who have a common identifier or to bring like-minded people together to help support a stronger on-campus community.

For many students, affinity and alliance groups were new concepts. Affinity groups are designed for people who all share a common trait. Some of these groups include groups based on race or ethnicity. The purpose of having these meetings is to establish a safe space for students who might go through similar experiences. Alliance groups focus on a more community-based aspect where the goal is to essentially build up to allyship for marginalized groups with students who might share different experiences. While Marymount has alliance groups based on race and ethnicity, there are also groups based on sexual orientation, ability, and even mental health.

As affinity groups provide a safe space for anyone of any background, all people are welcome to join one. In fact, everyone should join an affinity group! Similar to talking with a group of friends at a lunch table, these groups operate to make people feel comfortable and seen in an environment where there may be a diversity of different people and perspectives. Alliance groups are easy to join, and they are also super fun to join because your involvement in them shows that you are someone others can go to if they need a safe space. Not only do you have the ability to help others by listening, but you also gain the perspective of others which is capital. The future depends on people who can use empathy, and if joining an alliance or affinity group could promote that at an early age, the future is already at a great start.