TH118 – Out in Architecture: Elevating LGBTQIA+ Stories to Build Equitable Futures

As the LGBTQIA+ community faces intensified political attacks and fearmongering, this session will create space for elevating queer stories and imagining equitable futures. Through the power of storytelling, a panel of LGBTQIA+ architects will share their paths to authentic expression and equity-building within the profession.

You'll hear compelling personal stories of the unique challenges and opportunities in building equitable cultures that are inclusive to the LGBTQIA+ community—representing 7% of architects and 20% of new graduates. This session will emphasize and open a robust discussion on increasing visibility and community-building for a more equitable future.

Learning Objectives

  1. Gain the language to communicate about the importance of LGBTQIA+ visibility and representation in the profession of architecture.
  2. Learn how to organize collaborative programming across varied identity-based organizations and groups.
  3. Discuss intersectionality and identity as these apply to the practice of architecture.
  4. Identify strategies for advancing equitable and inclusive culture within firms for LGBTQIA+ people and other underrepresented groups.