The existing members often are required to vote upon whether or not to accept the applicant as a new member. Often, a would-be member had to be proposed for membership by an existing member, or would-be members might petition to join on their own. Unlike salons or other periodic gatherings that had continuously changing participants, affinity groups traditionally have had curated memberships. They gathered to eat, drink and socialize with other members, and to discuss literary matters.ĭuring the 17th century, far more affinity groups formed, ranging from large, national or even international fraternal groups like the Freemasons to private gentlemen's clubs, to small, informal reading circles or collectors clubs.
Membership was strictly limited and many of the Elizabethan Era's most prominent literary figures belonged. One of the earliest recorded examples of such was a group that called itself the "Fraternity of Sireniacal Gentlemen" which met at the Mermaid Tavern in London the first Friday night of each month. Some charge membership dues or expect members to share the cost of the group's expenses.Īlthough affinity groups are a natural way for humans to organize and are, in that sense, as old as humanity, the origin of affinity groups in the current context began in the 16th century in Britain with dining clubs that would meet at a set location and at a recurring time. Affinity groups may have either open or closed membership, although the latter is far more common.
Affinity group software#
Other affinity groups may have a hierarchy to provide management of the group's long-term interests, or if the group is large enough to require the delegation of responsibilities to other members or staff.Īffinity groups can be based on a common social identity or ideology (e.g., anarchism, conservatism), a shared concern for a given issue (e.g., anti-nuclear, anti-abortion) or a common activity, role, interest or skill (e.g., legal support, medical aid, software engineering). They provide a method of organization that is flexible and decentralized. Some affinity groups are organized in a non- hierarchical manner, often using consensus decision making, and are frequently made up of trusted friends. Examples of affinity groups include private social clubs, fraternities, writing or reading circles, hobby clubs, and groups engaged in political activism.
Affinity groups are generally precluded from being under the aegis of any governmental agency, and their purposes must be primarily non-commercial. Follow this link to make a contribution of any amount, and we completely understand if this is not possible for you at this time.Īll participants agree to the participant guidelines as part of their participation.An affinity group is a group formed around a shared interest or common goal, to which individuals formally or informally belong. We would ask that you consider, if you can, giving a modest contribution to our organization so that we can continue to share self-compassion with the world.
Affinity group free#
This free offering is made out of our sincere desire to support humankind in this challenging time. These sessions are led by senior Mindful Self-Compassion teachers volunteering their time and include a short opening talk, a guided meditation of about 20-25 minutes and then a time at the end for unmuting for brief comments and time to wave goodbye. This global BIPOC circle practices MSC online together on the first Thursday of the month at 3pm, Pacific Time. Please note that these sessions are only for those who claim these identities themselves and not for those who identify as “allies” of those with the identities. CMSC is pleased to offer a monthly Affinity Practice Circle for the BIPOC community.