[nicbou]

These groups are relaxed learning environments in which outsiders can play, experiment, and express themselves.

I think we can all think of a hobby or topic we'd feel more comfortable joining if there was such an environment to introduce us to it.

For example, I'd love to play soccer, but I'd embarrass myself at the local field, especially with the language barrier. A "soccer for out of shape immigrants" group would certainly get me to play more. Likewise, I'd take a "welding for bead-curious urbanites who never get their hands dirty" class.

We can all appreciate the value of such environments. We just have to accept that the barrier of entry is different for everyone. For some, it might be gender or colour.