Affinity group

Affinity Group

An affinity group is a small group of people who organize around a shared interest or common goal. These groups are often formed to facilitate collective action, mutual support, and social change. Affinity groups are typically autonomous, self-organized, and non-hierarchical, allowing members to collaborate effectively and make decisions through consensus.

An affinity group participating in a protest.

Affinity groups are commonly associated with activism and social movements, where they serve as a basic unit of organization. They can be found in various contexts, including political campaigns, environmental movements, and community organizing efforts.

Structure and Function

Affinity groups are characterized by their informal structure and flexible organization. Members of an affinity group often share a common ideology, interest, or identity, which serves as the foundation for their collaboration. The size of an affinity group can vary, but they are typically small enough to allow for effective communication and decision-making.

Decision-Making

Decision-making within affinity groups is usually based on consensus, a process that seeks to find common agreement among all members. This approach emphasizes equal participation and values each member's input, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment to the group's goals.

Roles

While affinity groups are generally non-hierarchical, members may take on specific roles to facilitate the group's activities. Common roles include facilitator, note-taker, and spokesperson. These roles are often rotated among members to ensure shared responsibility and skill development.

Activities

Affinity groups engage in a wide range of activities, depending on their goals and interests. Common activities include organizing protests, conducting direct action, and providing mutual aid. They may also focus on education, advocacy, and community building.

Direct Action

Direct action is a key tactic used by many affinity groups. This involves taking immediate, often confrontational, action to achieve a specific goal. Examples include sit-ins, blockades, and civil disobedience.

Mutual Aid

Mutual aid is another important aspect of affinity groups, where members support each other and their communities through the sharing of resources and skills. This can include providing food, shelter, and medical care during times of crisis.

Related Pages

• Activism
• Consensus decision-making
• Direct action
• Mutual aid
• Social movement