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Affinity Groups

In spring 2019, President Lamb met with several campus groups directly impacted by the hate speech (e.g. Umoja, African American Male Leadership Group, Black Employees Network, etc.) These meetings were intended to be an opportunity to learn how the college could better address the anxiety and stress happening on campus and to hear employee and student concerns regarding safety and feeling valued on campus. The college also had multiple discussions regarding how we can better support our colleagues who sometimes experience trauma when repeatedly addressing institutional barriers and student anxiety and stress.

One option that came from these discussions was making sure that all employees were more familiar with the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP has a comprehensive list of psychologists, marriage family therapists, and other professionals with a variety of backgrounds and specialties who can help provide support for individuals experiencing secondary trauma or stress. Employees can select the specific professional that best meets their needs from numerous professionals in the area. These services are confidential and free as part of your benefits package. Individuals can access these services initially online or by telephone. Information regarding this benefit can be accessed from the district website.

Another idea that has been proposed is the possibility of developing additional and stronger affinity groups to support colleagues who feel targeted by hate speech. Affinity groups are usually defined as groups who share a common interest or purpose and work to create an inclusive environment where all feel respected, seen, and empowered to succeed. In fall 2019, will confer with existing and potential affinity groups regarding their needs and the potential development of additional affinity groups to create a more supportive environment.