In 1971, 12 African American architects from across the country met during the AIA Convention in Detroit. What the professionals shared was a recognition of the need for an organization dedicated to the development and advancement of architects of color. They wanted underrepresented design professionals to work together to fight discriminatory policies that limited or barred architects like themselves from participating in design and construction projects and programs.
This became the founding of the National Organization of Minority Architects, which now has 37 professional chapters throughout the country and 80 NOMA Students chapters on college and university campuses. This year, NOMA celebrates 50 years of promoting the quality and excellence of design professionals of color.
