What Role Does Architecture Play In Promoting Social Equity?

Architecture is the design of spaces that shapes society. Though with the increase of globalisation and the blurring of geographical boundaries, the globalised architecture industry is diverse, there are still gaps that need to be addressed regarding equity in architecture. Equity refers to the provision of equal opportunities for all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, cultural background, or socio-economic status. This brings us to the topic of equity in architecture, which has to do with ensuring the fair distribution of opportunity among everyone involved in the industry.

There is a pressing need for equity in the architecture industry because it is important to create spaces that accommodate everybody and design that integrates all voices. No one should be left behind. Architects have a significant role to play in ensuring that people with diverse backgrounds participate in the industry through opportunities for training, mentorship, and networking. Here are some practical steps that can be taken to achieve equity in architecture:

Breaking the barriers: Architects should ensure that the profession is accessible to all people. This means that architectural firms should provide opportunities for internships, mentoring, and scholarships to people from diverse backgrounds. The industry bodies such as the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) can also create access to the profession for everyone by encouraging inclusivity in the architectural competitions they organise.
Empower people with knowledge: It's important to acknowledge that architectural education tends to be expensive, and this poses a significant barrier for people from low socio-economic backgrounds who cannot afford it. To achieve equity in architecture, architects can mentor students from low socio-economic backgrounds and invest in projects that create architectural awareness at a young age
Collaborate widely: Collaboration between architects from diverse backgrounds is a step towards achieving equity in the industry. This ensures that all perspectives are heard and that everyone can make an equal contribution. Architects can collaborate with communities involved in a project to build trust and create a sense of ownership.
Accountability and transparency: Architectural firms can increase transparency about the recruitment process and their workforce data. They can also set targets and measure progress against equity targets, promoting openness to diversity, inclusion and equity.
Excellence and Recognition: Exposure in exhibitions, publications, and competitions can promote representation and equality for diverse voices within the architecture industry. Architects can recognise diverse leadership and contributions to the profession to bring wider recognition to the equitable opportunities and success achieved.
Education and Advocacy: RTF through its channels fosters dialogue on inclusive design and promotes equity and diversity awareness among architecture and design students. As institutions, universities can play a vital role in creating inclusive curriculums that promote equity, allowing students to learn about the diverse perspectives in architecture and design.

RTF is committed to promoting equity in the architecture industry, which has the power to transform society and create an equitable and inclusive future. Some rising voices in equity in architecture are:

Héctor Tarrido-Picart, who has established a platform for architects around the world, particularly Latin artists, through Sociedad de Arquitectos Leoneses Latinos (SALL) and a number of lectures in Mexico and Guatemala.
The Not Just A Pipeline study, which attempts to track representation in architecture education programs and explore why individuals do and do not stay in the profession.
The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), which has been rooted in promoting the understanding and knowledge of architecture among minority groups, including African Americans, Native Americans, and women.

FAQs:

What is equity in architecture?

Equity in architecture is the provision of equal opportunities for everyone in the architecture industry regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, socio-economic status, cultural background, or any other distinguishing feature.

Why is equity in architecture important?

It is important to achieve equity in architecture to ensure that everyone has a recognised voice and an equal contribution towards design activities. Architecture should be inclusive to achieve a fair distribution of opportunity and representation not only in the built environment but also in perceptions and the way we shape our societies.

How can architects promote equity in their field?

Architects can promote equity in their field by breaking the barriers of access through internships, mentoring, and scholarships, providing educational awareness programs, promoting transparency via accountability and recognition, collaboration and continuing diversity awareness & advocacy.

RTF is committed to cultivating a future in architecture and design that is equitable and provides opportunity for all individuals. The company has pledged to address the issues that need to be tackled in achieving equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the architectural industry. Together, we can shape a society that accommodates everyone.