DEC Initiatives

Each day our time together in Morning Meeting offers us a chance to learn, be inspired, and share our stories and interests with one another.  Designated Heritage Morning Meetings have been set aside to celebrate the broad range of cultures and identities in our community.  Many Heritage Morning Meetings are aligned with the Library of Congress recognition months created to celebrate the histories and contributions of historically marginalized communities. We encourage our families’ participation in Heritage Morning Meetings by submitting photos, videos, stories, music, and other elements that will help us to authentically honor, affirm, and celebrate our beautifully diverse community. Some Heritage Morning Meeting celebrations that take place annually include:

• Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept-Oct)

• National Coming Out/Calling In Day (Oct)

• Native American Heritage Month (Nov)

• LGBTQ History Month (Nov)

• Diwali (Nov)

• Lunar New Year (Base on lunar calendar)

• Black History Month (Feb)

• Women’s History Month (Mar)

• Eid-al-Fitr (Based on lunar calendar)

• Arab American History Month (Apr)

• Jewish American History Month (May)

• Asian American Pacific Islander Month (May)

• Pride (Jun)

• Caribbean American Heritage Month (Jun)

• Juneteenth (Jun)

Affinity Groups and Community Ally Groups is a school-wide initiative which provides the opportunity for people who share a salient aspect of identity to come together. Gathering in affinity spaces to talk about identity and allyship, and to make connections with others across grade levels enhances a sense of belonging and reduces isolation. We recognize that identity is complex and students may identify with more than one group. Families in Grades N3-3rd and 4th-8th grade students can make their selections in advance of each meeting. Students can change groups each month or remain in one group all year.  Community Ally Groups are open to all students and meet simultaneously and emphasize allyship. Each month, there is a curriculum offered and a shared theme that is explored in all Affinity and Community groups. Themes align with our social justice pillars and have included: Identity, Diversity, Community, Allyship, and Action.

The PCC/DEC Committee is the DEI committee of the Parent Community Connection. This committee plans and executes initiatives for parents and families to learn, connect, and engage with one another both socially, and around issues of shared interest.

Far Brook’s MLK Day of Action is held on the Sunday before the national MLK holiday observed in January.  This initiative for all ages is planned by the PCC/DEC Committee and is an opportunity for both building community and for activism honoring the example set by Martin Luther King Jr.

Story Slam is an initiative that draws on the creativity and wit of Far Brook’s adult community. Adults gather to share and to enjoy original personal stories developed around a common theme. Laughter, tears, and inspiration abound!

Throughout the year we offer opportunities such as speakers, webinars, dinners, and dialogues.