Affinity Group Norms

Respect confidentiality. To ensure participants can build trust, we must create and maintain a confidential space. What’s said here, stays here. What’s learned here, leaves here.

Be present. We know you have a lot going on and that you may be working amidst conflicting priorities – both personal and professional. As much as you are able, we hope you’ll stay with us and be present to engage in the conversation.

Recognize intent and impact. Let’s remember that we share the same intention for this space – openness and learning. And let’s also acknowledge and take responsibility for the impact of our words on and reactions to others.

Be brave and curious. Speak up and share. Ask questions. Each person has wisdom and insights to share, that’s why you’re here.

Accept and expect lack of closure. Some conversations – particularly about difficult or more complex topics – are likely not going to result in closure, at least not in one discussion. That’s okay. It’s still important that we’re doing our best to hold space for building understanding, even on the hard stuff.