By Gennifer Muñoz, AIA
2021 Board Director + Co-Chair AIACV EDI Committee
Let’s face it – talking about Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) can sometimes feel a bit awkward.
For me, I am an open book and willing to share honestly my successes, failures, mistakes, and growth experiences. I am comfortable admitting what I know and don’t know, and so far, I think it’s helped me in my career and my personal EDI journey. The skill of sitting with discomfort is something I’ve learned through years of personal growth, through practicing yoga and even some therapy along the way! BUT! I am the first to admit that this type of vulnerability is not easy, and it’s definitely a process.
One of the most important parts of working in the realm of EDI in our profession is to acknowledge that not everyone has an inherent ability to let themselves be uncomfortable or perhaps experience the tiniest desire to get to a point of feeling the discomfort needed to self-reflect on these issues. Some people might pull away the second something feels ‘off.’ We all come from different backgrounds, and therefore we all have a different tolerance levels and approaches to understanding EDI conversations…and that’s okay! This is why first and foremost our task is to acknowledge our differences so that we can learn to communicate in spite of them. To me, this is the biggest challenge and the core of EDI work.
I recently heard John Oliver from Last Week Tonight say “Real discomfort is the only thing that is going to bring about real change.” Whether or not you’re a fan of his brand of humor, I truly believe these words are worth taking to heart. I also believe that as a Chapter filled with intelligent, passionate and driven architects, we have the power to make real change. We are all problem-solvers trained and skilled in the art of creating solutions that solve unique intersecting challenges for many people at once. As a group of smart individuals who have the tenacity to pursue professional careers in architecture, mustn’t we also be capable of inventing the solutions needed to become a more equitable, diverse and inclusive profession?
It will take time, of course, but as a Chapter, I believe we are already well on our way to open conversations about equity diversity and inclusion in architecture. We are taking steps towards a more equitable profession that will impact our local community and humanity as a whole in a very positive way!
Thanks for reading… and please consider getting involved in the AIA Central Valley’s efforts towards Equity Diversity and Inclusion in our profession:
- Join the Committee
- Bi monthly Social meetings (June 23) + Committee business meetings (May 26)
- Join the EDI Committee Basecamp by emailing [email protected] to be notified of upcoming EDI events.
- Empowering 2: Empowering More Than You! June 24th – here’s a link to all the details!
- Firm Summit on EDI
- EDI Best Practices Guide for Firms
- Dear EDI
- #I Am
- AIA CV Community Guidelines