FACULTY & STAFF AFFINITY GROUPS Frequently Asked Questions

Employee Affinity Groups are recognized and formed around a shared identity or common goal to build stronger relationships among members of non-dominant, minoritized, historically and currently marginalized communities to foster and promote equity, inclusion, diversity, and accessibility across the CSULB campus. 

You may join multiple groups. Remember than involvement is voluntary, so activities during your work hours may be limited. 

Approved Employee Affinity Groups are listed on the Employee Affinity Group home page.

Please reach out to Raul Pacheco and Catherine Ward: EAGSupport@csulb.edu

Yes, please review the Recognition Policy and Application process found in the EAG Resource Guide. You are also encouraged to reach out to Raul Pacheco and Catherine Ward with any questions: EAGSupport@csulb.edu

Typically, there are no cost to join an EAG. However, some groups may have an optional membership fee. 

Yes, part-time employees can participate, but their involvement may be prorated based on their work hours. Part-time lecturers can also participate. Their involvement is voluntary, based on their availability, and does not require any form of supervision approval. 

Yes, however the 20 hours includes participation across all groups and can be distributed among them at your discretion.

Secure an affinity group sponsorship letter provided by the respective affinity group. The staff member then uses that letter to work with their appropriate administrator in seeking department approval to fulfill a commitment to the affinity group and ensure that the operational needs of the department are met.

Log into the Employee Center and look for the Affinity Group icon under “eAPPLICATIONS.” Request/track time using the familiar tool that you use to report time away for other reasons.

Supervisors are highly encouraged to allow participation unless operational needs of the department are not able to be met. For more information, reference the Involvement Consideration for Staff section in the EAG Resource Guide. 

There may be requests that supervisors may deny for participation in specific events or meetings to ensure that the operational needs of the department are met. In these cases, the Employee Affinity Group liaisons recommend that the supervisor work with staff members to design an equitable process for ensuring participation of all staff members.  

Your supervisor may ask for a report of your involvement in Employee Affinity Groups activities.