Why White Affinity Spaces?

RCCI focuses on nurturing transformation in white people shaped by the evangelical tradition in Greater Boston. One way we do this is through racial affinity groups. Just as women’s and men’s ministries or youth groups contextualize ministry to nurture growth, white affinity groups offer a space where white people can grow in their understanding and capacity to experience and participate in God’s redemptive work.

Why does RCCI use white affinity spaces?

• Both white people and people of color need to work toward biblical reconciliation for justice and healing to occur. White people often have the option to not think about or engage in issues of race. When they choose to do so, they often encounter a steep learning curve. People of all races benefit if white folks take time to learn and grow before, during, and after crossing racial lines.

• Racism impacts people of different races in various ways. Doing self-work in affinity groups helps white folks explore how racism affects them and the work they need to do to experience — and contribute to — Christ’s healing and transformation. 

• It is not the responsibility of people of color to teach white people about race. White people should bear this responsibility, with the guidance of people of color. 

• The experiences, capacity, identity, and call of Megan Lietz, founder and director of the RCCI, make her best suited to focus on white evangelicals.

Although RCCI utilizes white affinity spaces, this does not mean we are outside of the accountability of people of color. On the contrary, we need their guidance and oversight all the more. Click here to learn more about how we stay accountable to people of color.