A Community for
Educators of Color

to connect, heal, and thrive together!

There's Still Time to Make Your Voice Heard

Call Your Legislator and tell them to put the Illinois Affinity Group Network Back Into The Budget.

Use this link to tell legislators to fund the retention of diverse educators:
Tell Legislators to Fund Retention of Diverse Educators

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Teacher turnover in Illinois is higher among teachers who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, presenting not only an academic and life challenge for students, but also a fiscal challenge for schools and districts. While Illinois has invested significantly in recruiting diverse educators, retention of these educators, particularly Black educators, is sobering, which is why this network of support is necessary.

During the last school year 2024-25, the network supported 673 educators in 54 districts in all 6 IL Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools areas. Those educators worked with an estimated 19,500 students.

That same year, 100% of group facilitators and 91% of participants reported agreeing or strongly agreeing that participation in Affinity Groups helped develop a greater sense of belonging, with 93% of both groups reporting increased connections.

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The Illinois Affinity Group Network is a community for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) educators to celebrate, support, and inspire one another. Affinity groups are spaces where individuals with shared identities or experiences connect, exchange resources, and find collective support. By fostering joy, healing, and connection, we believe we all thrive together.

Find Your Community,
Thrive Together

Learn More About Us

Why Join An Illinois Affinity Group?

Affinity groups provide a transformative experience for BIPOC educators , offering a unique opportunity to connect, grow, and thrive. Here are the top five reasons to join:

Join a community that understands your journey as a BIPOC educator. Share experiences, make connections, and form lasting relationships.
Discover various resources tailored for BIPOC educators, including training workshops and advocacy tools to help you create change.
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Find places that lift your mood and boost your energy. Affinity groups help you recharge, think deeply, and reignite your passion for learning.
Discover mentorship, teamwork, and leadership options that support your career and respect your cultural identity.
Join collective efforts to drive equity and justice in education. Affinity groups empower you to lead, advocate, and make your voice heard in transforming schools.