Swirl is a national multi-ethnic organization that challenges society’s notions of race through community building, education, and action.
Swirl recognizes its work as happening in distinct but fluid phases. All chapters get their start in Phase One, and keep all elements of it, even when they begin to do the work of Phase Two. We realize that our future work is built on the stepping stones of our previous, and we anticipate that as Swirl evolves, so too will the phases of our work. Currently, our work expands through two defined phases:
Phase One: All Swirl chapters are initially built out of a need to create community for mixed heritage individuals, couples, and families. Through local community building, we challenge the idea that all should be able to fit in one neatly packaged identity, label, or ethnic group. Our members are children, adults, couples, and families who do not experience identity in simple terms. As our world continues to change, we have created a home for those who refuse to be boxed into “choosing just one.” We provide space for individuals who want to explore their identity, relate to others with similar experiences, or initiate community-led projects aimed at changing the way that society understands race and identity. We do this through various social, educational, creative, and action-based programs.
Phase Two: Our hope is that as our local chapters grow and build capacity, programming will expand to include a broader constituency. Where Phase One’s membership is inclusive of mixed individuals, couples, and families specifically, Phase Two’s membership is inclusive of anyone interested in challenging society’s notions of race within the context of a committed and energized community. Phase Two will provide more opportunities for Swirl to consider how race and identity impacts our lives, but with more people in the room. With an even more diverse set of voices, our discussions become richer, and we build a bigger and stronger community of people who are interested in joining a movement toward anti-racist change.
The timing for each phase is not prescribed. A chapter may feel ready for Phase Two after one month, while another is ready to take on the work after a couple of years. Each chapter is expected to create a plan for growth with their membership and capacity of leadership in mind.
Learn more about our Values!
