Ritual Works to Engender Shared Authenticity in Equity Work Groups: Generative Conflict in Equity Organizing

• In Event: 30255 - Social Networks and Interorganizational Relations

Abstract

Based on the findings of a 30-month ethnographic study of conflict in equity work groups, I build theory on how collective rituals facilitate generative group dynamics over time. Among equity work groups in the central office of a school district, conflict proceeds along three pathways: acquiescent, generative, and obstructive. These three pathways emerged based on (1) group members’ engagement in collective rituals across racial differences, and (2) the continuity of shared authenticity and reflexivity among members of the equity work groups. While all equity work groups engaged in work routines, equity work groups that also participated in collective rituals developed shared authenticity and a reflexive engagement with conflict (i.e., conflict reflexivity), resulting in more generative conflict dynamics over time. In both acquiescent and obstructive racial equity work groups, group members engaged in more interpersonal masking, although conflict reflexivity varied among group members. Ultimately, I present a process model demonstrating the conditions under which equity work group conflict dynamics lead to more equity innovation versus reinforce a passive-aggressive conflict culture in the district.

Author

• Estelle Elena Archibold, Case Western Reserve University