Why Affinity Spaces Matter

Why this came up: 

Recently, CO PMHP hosted a perinatal mental health training that was presented by Postpartum Support International for BIPOC professionals who work with pregnant and postpartum folks in our state. The training brought up many thoughts about the importance of these intentional spaces for BIPOC communities. As a Latina woman myself, being around so many other BIPOC people, all doing the same work just felt absolutely empowering! I found myself feeling so grateful that these spaces exist. I also thought about how The Birth Squad affinity support groups provide a very similar experience for group participants! So, here I am, writing a blog about why affinity spaces matter! 

Connection

One of the first things I found myself thinking as I was checking in all our training participants was, wow, where have all these professionals been? Why do I only know a handful of them? 

These affinity spaces serve to gather communities into one space, where you aren’t separated within a large crowd and can find opportunities to connect! In these spaces, you are no longer the “other” in the room. 

Safety & Belonging 

Affinity groups create safety and belonging for the participants. They allow participants to fully be themselves, without systemic prejudice. Participants may also find it easier to connect with each other because of shared experiences and backgrounds. You belong because of your shared identities, languages, and interests. Here, there is space to talk about the impacts of systemic racism and challenges, without needing to look over your shoulder in fear of creating conflict. This also allows for participants to bond and create their villages, which is what we are all about here! 

Support & Validation 

Affinity spaces also provide support and validation. In affinity support groups, our participants can feel truly seen, heard, and understood. There is validation that comes with shared understanding of experiences, beliefs, and upbringings. Someone who is struggling with their mental health may be hesitant to reach out for support or even discuss their feelings with their family. At the same time, this may be better understood by other individuals within their community, which makes a person more likely to share these feelings in an affinity space. 

Interested in attending one of The Birth Squad’s affinity groups? Take a look at our offerings here: https://calendly.com/the-birth-squad-denver.