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Your LGBTQIA+ Guide to AIA24!

Rosalie Howell, Assoc. AIA
, Rosalie Howell, Assoc. AIA

AIA24 will host some amazing LGBTQIA+ networking events and seminars, featuring guest speakers from the LGBTQIA+ alliances, practicing architecture professionals, contributors to the recently published Out In Architecture book, and more!

Join us for a chance to network with your LGBTQIA+ colleagues, learn about Queer advocacy in the professional environment, and celebrate the contributions of LGBTQIA+ architectural professionals in our field!

We can’t wait to see you in D.C.! Explore this inaugural LGBTQIA+ guide for more details.

Queer-focused seminars & symposium

The Collision of Firm Practice + Queer Advocacy
Wednesday, June 5 from 1:30–3pm
Convention Center Room 152

Learn how anti-queer legislation is impacting the business of architecture and how firm practice and queer advocacy intersect with the health, safety, and welfare of employees and their families.

Out in Architecture: Elevating LGBTQIA+ Stories to Build Equitable Futures
Thursday, June 6 from 2–3:30pm
Convention Center Ballroom C

Join a panel of LGBTQIA+ architects as they share their paths to authentic expression and equity-building within the profession.

LGBTQIA+ in Architecture Symposium
Saturday, June 8 from 10am–2pm
Convention Center Ballroom C

For the first time ever, AIA24 is hosting an LGBTQIA+ in Architecture Symposium! 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.

  • Panel 01 | Setting the Stage: A Dialogue on the Intersection of Queer Advocacy & the Profession: Learn from individuals who have elevated and amplified the experiences of queer communities at the intersection of the profession, advocacy, and those we serve.
  • Panel 02 | Creating Spaces Within Your Communities: Hear from AIA LGBTQIA+ Alliance leadership as they lead an exploration of grassroots organizing, engagement, advocacy, and community building.
  • Lunch Break: You’ve gotta eat! Network and get to know your peers over lunch.
  • Out in Architecture Roundtable Discussion: What’s it like to be part of the LGBTQIA+ community in our profession? How do we advocate for ourselves and each other while honoring and amplifying the intersections of our identities? This is your chance to add your voice to the chorus of queer advocacy in our profession. Take part in open conversation to hear visions, feedback, and tangible actions with all attendees.
  • Transition to D.C. Pride: At the end of the symposium, attendees can transition directly to the D.C. Pride Parade and celebrate together!

LGBTQIA+ networking events

LGBTQ+ Happy Hour
Wednesday, June 5 from 5:30–7pm
Dacha Beer Garden | 1600 7th Street N

Get to know your LGBTQIA+ colleagues over drinks, snacks, and entertainment during Happy Hour, co-hosted by AIA|DC and AIA.

Dacha Beer Garden is located 0.6 miles from the convention center on 7th St NW at Q St NW. Transit options are available.

Meet the LGBTQIA+ Alliances
Thursday, June 6 from 5–5:30pm

AIA Booth on the Expo Floor

Meet the AIA LGBTQIA+ Alliances from nice local AIA chapters across the country. Connect with leadership, be inspired by local programming, and learn how you can get involved with this growing community!

D.C. Pride Parade!
Saturday, June 8 from 3–7:30pm

See website for more details.

Join the D.C. LGBTQIA+ community for the 2024 Capital Pride Parade! How perfect is it that the very first LGBTQIA+ in Architecture Symposium is happening on the same day as the 2024 D.C. Pride Parade?!

The parade travels south along 14th St NW, which is 0.5 miles from the convention center. Transit options are available.

Speakers & industry experts

You’ll meet and hear from firm leaders, practicing architects, educators, and emerging professionals who are pioneering LGBTQIA+ advocacy in the AEC industry!

Accessibility

AIA24 will be an inclusive and accessible experience for all who attend. Visit the accessibility at AIA24 page to learn about the available accommodations and how to request an additional accommodation.

See you in D.C. at AIA24!

AIA24 will break important ground in LGBTQIA+ representation. I’m so excited we get the opportunity to participate in this monumental moment together!

I hope to see you there! If you spot me, don’t be a stranger—I’m always happy to connect and can answer any questions you may have about the LGBTQIA+ events at conference.