Kaley Fought, AIA
AIAO President-Elect
This week is a pivotal one. We are stepping into a new chapter; one which offers an opportunity to take a sure and confident step forward. When I think of the role of the Architect, it is one of possibility - excitement and innovation, creativity and boldness. The willingness, I think, to not please everybody, but to challenge the status quo.
As a unified state chapter, we span a variety of demographics through urban and rural communities, and as Architects, we continually share the company of a multitude of circles - our colleagues, clients, families, and communities - and within this network we have a responsibility to push for design that is representative, and inclusive, of this diverse society. I do not mean to limit our role as a part of the community to that of the designer; rather consider the reality that we can make a substantial impact in addressing the crises that exist today.
While we are far from assuaging the damage that has been done to our planet, globally, as an industry, Architects were some of the first to step forward and push for changes which make for healthier, more sustainable buildings. This has had an incredible effect on our communities and has completely altered the way people think about buildings - from health and wellbeing to the financial impact of conserving energy. This collective, unified approach towards making a positive change in the way we design can, and should, be applied towards building more equitable, inclusive, and healthy communities.
During the past year, AIAO Board members participated in an equity and diversity workshop hosted by Future Work Design. The work we pursued was challenging and reflective, and at times deeply saddened me, but mostly I found it inspiring. While every individual is walking their own path, with their own challenges and goals, their own perspective and past, some individuals are pushing through systemic layers of obstruction that others never have to consider. What I found most inspiring about the workshop was the collective willingness and commitment of our board members to building a stronger, more representative community of Architects. Stronger in our representation, our voice as an advocate for the betterment of our communities, and in supporting the vision for inclusive, safe, and healthy places. One who doesn’t simply make a commitment to being more inclusive because we should, but an organization whose representation is integral to our mission and our members.
We can challenge the way things are, in pursuit of the way they could be.