NOMA and the AIA Large Firm Roundtable Strengthen Ties to Combat Racism in Architecture

The National Organization of Minority Architects and the American Institute of Architects' Large Firm Roundtable have issued the following statement and letter strengthening their partnership and their support of taking action to combat systemic racism in architecture.

To The Architectural Community:

Now more than ever, it is vital that we stand together to combat the insidious impact of racism in our profession. Not only does racism harm our Black colleagues, it compromises our collective ability to protect the healthy, safety and welfare of the public. The time for change is now.

In the letter [linked below] from the American Institute of Architect's Large Firm Roundtable (LFRT) to the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), there is language underscoring LFRT's commitment to supporting NOMA in addressing the negative impact of cultural and racial bias in the profession. We want to be clear that this is not hollow language or lip service, it is a true commitment to facilitate a stronger working relationship between LFRT firms and NOMA to transform our profession for the benefit of all.

AIA Film Challenge 2020

Design has the power to solve some of the biggest issues facing cities today. We believe these stories are among the most important stories we can tell. The AIA Film Challenge is a film contest that amplifies these stories—architects partnering with communities and civic leaders to design a healthy, sustainable, just world that improves peoples’ lives. Learn more about the theme>

The challenge is open to everyone. Use your smartphone or computer to produce a 60- to 90-second mini documentary. You could win up to $7,000!

Films due - August 24

Public voting - August 31-October 4

Winners announced - October 2020

Architects in Action 2020: AIA Legislative Exchange

Join your fellow state and local component leaders for AIA’s premier policy and advocacy event.

The State & Local Government Network Annual Meeting is now Architects in Action, a multi-session virtual event centered on dynamic speakers, timely policy discussions, and peer-to-peer learning. Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in online workshops, join an "Ask Me Anything" conversation, and meet someone new at a virtual networking happy hour.

This annual meeting is a vital part of every state and local chapter's policy and advocacy efforts, offering you an opportunity to hear from guest speakers, learn about emerging state and local issues, and participate in virtual workshops led by your peers.

All AIA members and component staff are welcome and encouraged to attend.

If you are interested in participating in the AIA Oregon Legislative Affairs Committee, contact Curt Wilson at info@aiaoregon.org.