_{^{NOMA’s Public Statement Regarding Racial Injustice}}

The National Organization of Minority Architects is a leading voice for architects and allies as communities all over the country strive towards a more equitable, diverse and inclusive society.  In support of NOMA, AIA NEI wanted to share  their powerful message about Racial Injustice and their valuable B.R.A.V.E acronym.  NOMA's B.R.A.V.E. acronym and an excerpt from their statement is below.  Follow the link to read NOMA's full Public Statement on Racial Injustice.

B.R.A.V.E.

We must all leverage our positions of privilege to help our most vulnerable citizens, neighbors and colleagues strive for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. I urge you to consider what’s happening right now as an American problem that we must all face together. Can we collectively be ALL in for NOMA? More importantly, can we all be BRAVE, as in committing ourselves to the list of items below for which BRAVE is an acronym?

         banish racism

         reach out to those who are grieving

         advocate for the disinherited

         vote in every American election

         engage each human you meet as YOU would want to be engaged

If we can promote these basic ideas in our firms, our organizations and in our communities, our nation will be better for it. Perhaps then, we can all breathe a little bit easier. Only then, can we target our energy and creativity towards designing a better world for all.

In Solidarity,Kim

Kimberly Dowdell 2019-2020 NOMA National President

AIA NEI and I-NOMA are currently working together towards meaningful collaboration moving forward.  If you want to learn more about NOMA or I-NOMA or get involved please follow the links below:

National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)

Illinois-National Organization of Minority Architects (I-NOMA)