By Tim Garcia

Growing up in the New York City public school system, I experienced the highs and lows of education firsthand. There were moments when incredible educators helped me soar, and others where I felt like I was falling through the cracks. I carried those experiences with me, shaping the way I view education and, ultimately, how I approach my work in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) today.

As a young student, I found solace and empowerment in nonprofit programs that seemed to understand me before I even walked through the door. These programs were meticulously designed with equity in mind, offering me opportunities that I couldn’t see for myself at the time. They provided me with a sense of belonging, which is why I now dedicate myself to creating those same kinds of spaces for others.

In my work as an educator, and more recently as a DEI practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of spaces that allow individuals to feel seen, heard, and supported. One of the most effective ways to foster that environment is through affinity spaces—groups where participants share a common identity, such as race or ethnicity. Affinity spaces are more than just groups; they are intentional, mission-aligned environments that allow for reflection, support, and growth.

The beauty of affinity spaces is that they provide a safe environment where individuals can take risks that they might not feel comfortable taking risks in a larger, mixed group setting. These spaces give participants the chance to explore their identities in nuanced ways, and to engage in deep, thoughtful dialogue that promotes self-awareness and community-building.

But affinity spaces aren’t just about talking. They’re about action, too. Whether we’re working with students or professionals, these spaces are designed to build skills—academic, social, and emotional—that participants can carry with them into their broader communities. When done well, affinity spaces can help individuals understand themselves and others on a deeper level, leading to more connected, more productive mixed-group settings.

Of course, creating and maintaining these spaces takes skill and intention. It’s not just about bringing people together; it’s about facilitating meaningful dialogue and ensuring that everyone in the room feels safe and supported. And while the work can be challenging, the payoff is enormous. By fostering environments where individuals can explore their identities and build their skills, we help create a more equitable, inclusive world for everyone.

In today’s climate, where DEI work is being scrutinized and even scaled back in some organizations, it’s more important than ever to stay committed to this work. We need to ensure that DEI initiatives are deeply embedded in the strategic plans of our organizations, so that when times get tough, these essential efforts don’t get left behind.

For those who are skeptical of affinity spaces, or who worry that separating individuals by identity might do more harm than good, I offer this perspective: Affinity spaces are not about exclusion; they’re about preparation. By giving individuals the space to explore their identities in a supportive environment, we help them build the confidence and skills they need to thrive in mixed-group settings. In the end, everyone benefits from this work—students, educators, and the broader community alike.

So, as we continue to navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world, let’s remain committed to creating spaces where everyone can feel safe, supported, and ready to grow. Because when we do that, we all win.

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This post draws from my experiences as an educator and DEI practitioner, as well as my passion for creating spaces of belonging and growth for all. Whether you’re an educator, a leader, or just someone who cares about making the world a better place, I hope you’ll join me in this important work.