Washington, D.C. – December 16, 2015 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) has created the Equity in Architecture Commission, a blue-ribbon panel of leading architects, educators, and diversity experts to investigate diversity and inclusion in the profession. The 20-member group is charged with assessing recent data, setting a plan of action, and reporting on results to the AIA Board of Directors by the end of 2016. The commission is a result of the “Equity in Architecture” resolution passed at the 2015 AIA annual meeting—a call to action to retain talent, advance the profession, and further the value of design in society through diversity actions.

“Diversity and inclusion is a priority of the AIA. We have made progress, but not fast enough. The world around us is changing much faster and we can do better,” said 2015 AIA President Elizabeth Chu Richter, FAIA. “We have great opportunity now to look at how to achieve the equity, diversity, and inclusion in AIA member firms through a creative means and provide a framework for the profession to act faster and better to meet a growing demand for architects.”

The goals for the Equity in Architecture Commission include:

• Develop specific recommendations that will lead to equitable practices
• Create measurable goals and develop mechanisms for assessing ongoing progress
• Present a plan of action based on the Commission’s recommendations

“We know looking forward, architects will be in high demand to develop the kind of society and environment that will be conducive to living healthy and living well,” added Richter. “This aligns with language in the resolution that prompted the formation of the Commission: Equity is everyone’s issue and achieving equitable practice has a direct impact on the relevance, economic health and future of the Institute and our profession.”

About The American Institute of Architects
Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit  www.aia.org.


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Matt Tinder
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