The Identity Mapping
The Identity Mapping activity is an engaging and reflective exercise designed to help participants delve into the
multifaceted nature of their identities. It's a great starting point for discussions about diversity, inclusion, and
self-awareness.
Materials Needed:
● Large sheets of paper or poster board
● Markers, pens, or pencils
● Rulers (optional, for drawing neat lines)
Instructions:
Preparation:
● Prepare a sample identity map to show as an example. This can be your own or a fictional
example.
● Set up a comfortable space where participants can spread out and work on their maps.
Introduction (5-10 minutes):
● Begin with a brief discussion on identity and its importance. Explain how our identities can
affect our perspectives, interactions, and experiences in different contexts.
● Introduce the concept of the Identity Map as a tool to explore and visualize the different
aspects of one's identity.
Drawing the Map (10-15 minutes):
● Give each participant a large sheet of paper and access to markers or pens.
● Instruct them to draw a large circle, filling the sheet. Inside the circle, they should draw lines
to divide the circle into sections, like a pie chart. You can suggest a number of sections based
on time and the depth of discussion desired, typically between 8 to 12.
● Label each section with different aspects of identity. These can include, but are not limited to:
● Race
● Ethnicity
● Gender
● Age
● Religion
● Sexual orientation
● Socioeconomic status
● Education
● Nationality
● Disability
● Language
● Participants can add or modify sections based on aspects of identity they feel are significant to
them.
Filling Out the Map (15-20 minutes):
● Ask participants to think about and write their identifiers in each section. Encourage them to
consider how these aspects contribute to their identity as a whole.
● Remind them that it's okay if they feel that some sections are more relevant to their identity
than others.
Reflection and Sharing (20-30 minutes):
● Once everyone has completed their maps, facilitate a group discussion. Participants can
volunteer to share their maps and reflections.
● Guide them to reflect on the following questions:
● Which aspects of your identity do you think about most often? Least often?
● How do different contexts (work, home, social settings) influence which parts of your
identity are most salient?
● Were there any aspects of your identity that were difficult to define? Why?
● How does your identity affect your interactions with others?
Group Discussion (10-15 minutes):
● Engage the group in a discussion about the diversity of identities within the room.
● Discuss the importance of recognizing and valuing diverse identities in creating inclusive
environments.
● Reflect on how this activity might influence their approach to interactions with others,
especially in a teaching or team-setting context.
Closing (5 minutes):
● Wrap up by highlighting the key takeaways from the activity and the discussion.
● Emphasize the ongoing nature of exploring and understanding one's identity and biases.
● Thank participants for their openness and participation.
Additional Tips:
● Ensure the environment is respectful and supportive, making it clear that everyone's experiences and
identities are valid and important.
● Consider the diversity of your group and be prepared to support participants who may find certain
aspects of their identity challenging to discuss.
● Encourage participants to keep their identity maps and reflect back on them periodically as their
understanding of their own identity evolves.