The term “affinity group” is used as a bringing together of people who have commonality. Affinity groups are for individuals who identify as members of the group and can speak to the experience of being a part of the group from an “I” perspective. TMA believes in creating safe spaces for communities that share more in common than their myositis. Safe spaces can provide a break from judgment, unsolicited opinions, and having to explain yourself where there is no understanding. They allow people to feel supported and respected. This is especially important for people of color, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and other marginalized groups.
Affinity Groups play a vital role in ensuring an inclusive environment where all are valued, included, and empowered to succeed and are part of TMA’s commitment to amplifying patient voices, health equity and access. Our Affinity Groups also serve to help the organization create awareness and connectivity in communities where the groups have natural membership. The ability to effectively participate in this increased advocacy and awareness building is essential to TMA’s work. Increased awareness of myositis has the potential to lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments, improving the quality of life for our patients. TMA and our Affinity Groups also advocate for patients through educational and media events, as well as advancing legislation that remove barriers to accessing the best of myositis care.
TMA is excited to provide LGBTQIA+ programming in the form of TMA affinity group Rainbow Warriors! This group meets on the fourth Sunday of each month. In addition to providing support around commonality in addition to a myositis diagnosis, this group seeks to creative connectivity within the broader LGBTQIA+ community and ensure all LGBTQIA+ patients are provided an affirmative, inclusive, and respectful environment in healthcare settings and throughout their myositis journey.
