SYM100 – LGBTQIA+ in Architecture Symposium

Additional fee, registration required.

Join us for the inaugural LGBTQIA+ in Architecture Symposium as we connect with other architects/designers/allies, hear from panels of community leaders, and collaboratively discuss topics at the intersection of queer visibility, advocacy, and design.

Today, 7% of architects and 28% of new graduates identify as LGBTQIA+ and are within or entering an architecture profession that isn’t always inclusive and welcoming. As the landscape of policy, communities, and the profession continues to change, workplace practice and culture must also continue to advance to more equitable and affirming spaces. We have to continually combat queer/trans erasure with increased visibility. We have to work to dismantle barriers constructed from anti-LGBTQIA+ laws and policies. We have to especially support the prismatic lens of diversity the LGBTQIA+ community represents. All these efforts will ensure we can safely bring our full selves into every space and community we enter and have the opportunity to design with.

This year’s symposium will include two panel discussions with representatives from the LGBTQIA+ architecture community, focusing on the intersection of queer advocacy and the profession, as well as creating inclusive spaces within our communities. We will conclude with collaborative roundtable discussions where participants will engage in moderated conversations to share visions and tangible actions we can take to advance affirming and equitable spaces for LGBTQIA+ people in our profession.

Register for the symposium only for $99, or if your planning to attend AIA24, add it on for $49. Ultimate, Full, or One-day Pass required.

Agenda
10am Welcome + Opening Comments

10:15am Panel 01 | Setting the Stage: A Dialogue On The Intersection of Queer Advocacy and The Profession
A panel discussion led by individuals who have elevated and amplified the experiences of queer communities at the intersection of the profession, advocacy, and those we serve.

11:15am Panel 02 | Creating Spaces Within Your Communities
A panel discussion led by AIA LGBTQIA+ Alliance leadership, exploring grassroots organizing, engagement, advocacy, and community building.

12:15–12:45pm Lunch

12:45pm Out in Architecture Roundtable Discussion
Roundtable discussions with facilitated open conversation to hear visions, feedback, and tangible actions from and with all attendees.

1:45pm Collective Conversation
Moderated conversation with full Symposium to discuss high level takeaways and opportunities from the roundtable discussions.

2pm Transition to D.C. Pride!

Learning Objectives

1. Understand why LGBTQIA+ visibility and representation in architecture are important to the continued evolution of the field.
2. Consider new ways to organize collaborative programming across identity-based organizations and groups.
3. Compare past and current efforts to make space for LGBTQIA+ architects within the profession and discover how to participate in ongoing and future efforts.
4. Discuss strategies for elevating LGBTQIA+ design professionals and other underrepresented groups through advocacy and grassroots engagement within firms, organizations, and the AEC industry.

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