Last year was a slap in the face, but with it came invaluable perspective and clarity. We were caught flat-footed by a barrage of haymaker punches: the pandemic, the resultant economic recession, divisive political rhetoric, and the civil unrest following the senseless killings of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Rayshard Brooks, and countless others. Our lives have been uprooted and our plans derailed. A number of us have lost jobs and, even worse, others have lost their lives or loved ones.
Amid these challenges, the galvanized Black Lives Matter movement has forced the design profession to face the long-standing truths that have systemically perpetuated the dominance of white men in architecture—and the persistently low numbers regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As I step into the role of the new president of the National Organization of Minority Architects, I am reflecting on the challenges we have faced. I am shifting my focus to what makes me hopeful and what message I can share with our membership, local chapters, and allied partners. It is hard to be hopeful while others are in pain, and it is hard to remain positive when no immediate relief is in sight. Nonetheless, a few shimmering rays of daylight have pierced through the clouds, signaling that change is near.
The growing unity among all genders and races across the Black Lives Matter demonstrations last summer has left me hopeful. I’ve seen more focused and fair coverage on diversity and inclusion in the news and online as well as strong stances on policy changes that will help protect and serve marginalized communities.
NOMA has served as a guiding light in the industry, mediating tough conversations on race, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. The increased dialogue on discriminatory practices that have long discouraged the advancement of design professionals of color also makes me hopeful. Many influential global firms are leveraging their power of scale to move the needle toward social justice and equity across the industry, creating a ripple effect. My own firm, Gensler, has created five strategies to fight against racism, support social justice, and combat the long-standing constructs of imbalanced power and discrimination against Black professionals.
As NOMA looks to celebrate its 50th anniversary at its annual conference this October, we carry with us lessons learned around accessibility and technology from last year’s virtual conference, which broke attendance records.
Last but not least, despite our many political party affiliations, I am hopeful for the return of civil and compassionate leadership in our government, the value of facts and science in support of our fragile environment, and calls for unity—not division—from the highest elected office in our country. I am hopeful that a torn and divided nation can come back together to collectively face the days ahead.
As an organization, NOMA is facing challenges as well, but good ones: Our membership has doubled over the last two years, and we continue to expand our team and staff to meet the growing needs of our members and to reinforce the value of being a part of the organization. NOMA strategically reinforces its own pipeline by mentoring up-and-coming leadership across our ranks. Presidents-elect have two years to watch and learn before they take office.
Since 2019, I have worked alongside NOMA leadership to help ensure the success of our programs and initiatives. I plan to expand and amplify local programming by our student and professional chapters and ensure it dovetails with our new national platform to “Educate, Elevate, and Empower” our membership base and our chapters across the country.
While last year was difficult, change is also hard. But I have much to be hopeful for and knowing that I’m not alone is reason enough to continue.
The views and conclusions from this author are not necessarily those of ARCHITECT magazine or of The American Institute of Architects.
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