The Role Community Plays in Identity - Explored through Clubs and Affinity

Written by Elise Su
Edited by Dominique Cao
Cover Image by Alison Yu

I realize that by now, most students are tired of being asked “what is your identity?” and “who are you?” over and over again. Whenever I come across these questions, my brain automatically shuts off. Condensing my entire 15 years of existence into a paragraph is no easy task - comparatively, it is like trying to shove your entire closet into one small suitcase that doesn’t even shut properly because the zipper is broken (not that I am speaking from experience or anything). But you get the point. For a social construct, identity is such an intrinsically complex phenomenon. 

One of my favourite definitions in a Medium article describes identity as, “a continuous interplay between character traits, beliefs, peculiarities and behavior we show when coping with other people, but also when interacting with our self or with material, practical and psychological matters.” Our identity is shaped by our values, beliefs, talents, and traits that are specific to us only. These individual idiosyncrasies and nuances of our character are what make us who we are—as cheesy as it sounds—and are the lenses through which we view reality through, developing as we move through the world. This is why it is so important to cherish it. Hence, common way of developing a stronger sense of identity is through our integration with the environment around us - more specifically in communities, societies, and cultures.

For as long as we can remember, communities have always been a place where our identities flourish the best. Whether this was in the form of secret societies, or neighborhoods, or weekly book clubs, communities (well, most…) have always been a place of freedom and expression - each community serving a different niche, different people, and in different parts of the world. In fact, they have become everso prevalent in today’s society that more and more institutions and schools like Havergal have been making them more accessible to students. For instance, clubs, alliance groups, lunch discussions (like Chomp Chat), community partnerships, and much more are made available for us as students. 

Now, I could continue and talk on and on about the numerous benefits of joining communities like these, but why not hear it directly from the source instead? This is what Vicky Chen, one of the Asian Student Alliance Heads has to say:

For me, Alliances and Affinity groups are crucial, especially an environment for education such as Havergal. It plays an extremely vital role in promoting an inclusive environment where everyone is valued, understood, and can realize that they are not alone in many of their experiences (both positive and negative). It’s one of the best ways to promote diversity and inclusion within the school, which is so prevalent. 

Throughout the year, we host various different meetings - from discussions to celebrations (we have a potluck coming up soon!). Our upcoming discussion is on family and family expectations. Most importantly, I think with ASA (or any other alliance/affinity group), we can create a safe space. A space where your feelings are validated, where you can relate to a lot of people around you, and have your thoughts heard. With ASA, not only are we constantly trying to create a safe space (which is done through discussions and activities), but also a space where our individuality and identities are celebrated (e.g. discussions on our favourite parts of being Asian, hosting potluck celebrations, etc.)! 

A special message from Vicky - If you identify as Asian and are interested, make sure to come to ASA on Fridays in B61 during lunch!! We’d love to see you there! :))

This same concept goes for any community in Havergal. In order to better understand and grow our identity, these communities help surround us with support from our peers and are great motivators of success. Vicky emphasizes the importance of a “safe space” and a sense of belonging in these communities, something which Cheryl Chen, a fellow member of ASA, also touches upon:

ASA has created a safe space for me and my peers to discuss our experiences and bond through shared identities. Everyone in the alliance is accepting and shows respect for our culture, opinions, etc. I highly recommend spaces like ASA within school communities as it nurtures friendships and develops an appreciation for marginalized voices and identities.

In the end, do what you believe is best for yourself. If you believe joining these school communities will benefit you, then I encourage you to get more involved with the opportunities that Havergal offers. Sign up for these clubs, alliances, community partnerships, or whatever you feel suits you best! On the other hand, if you feel uneasy about being a part of these communities, by any means, don’t let yourself feel pressured to join any. However, don’t completely eliminate the possibility - after all, you might find yourself changing your mind! :)