Perkins&Will and the American Institute of Architects (AIA) have released a framework for creating and implementing comprehensive diversity programs for U.S. architecture firms. A white paper, entitled “Creating a Culture of Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Your Architectural Practice,” was released in tandem with the announcement.
Penned by Perkins&Will global diversity director Gabrielle Bullock and principal Bill Schmalz, the white paper advocates for firms to uphold J.E.D.I. principles—justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion—in order to “remain relevant to clients, attractive to talent, and competitive in an increasingly diverse world.”
“Our industry and society are facing an unprecedented convergence of crises,” says Bullock. “Economic, health, environmental, social, and racial justice challenges have presented us not just with an opportunity, but also a responsibility, to address them. We can elevate the industry by challenging the status quo and reimagining the future by looking through the J.E.D.I. lens.”
The authors outline seven steps toward successfully adhering to the framework, including “articulating a vision, identifying a leader, establishing a network of partners, and developing tools to effect positive change at both the educational and professional levels.” The white paper emphasizes the urgency for U.S. firms to adopt these principles amid changing demographics in both talent and clientele. “The profession is long overdue in addressing these topics,” says Schmalz. “We are hoping this paper gives firms a process and the tools they can use to achieve success in creating a culture of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.”
Bullock adds, “Human society is complex, multicolored, and multicultural. Architecture firms must reflect this truism, authentically, in everything they do. Not only does their future success depend on it; the future health and well-being of entire generations depend on it, too.”
