We have continued to watch, listen, and learn over these last several weeks and are further resolved in our conviction to practice anti-racism and anti-oppression and to combat injustices, inequality, and biases that BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Colour) have always faced and continue to face every day. On June 11, 2020, we announced some initial concrete actions the organization will take—including examining our existing organizational structures, educating ourselves, and educating others. Additionally, we are working on initiatives in the path forward, including, developing a comprehensive anti-racism action plan, embedding the collection of demographic information in our processes, engaging in active conversations with stakeholders (both intra-professional and cross-disciplinary), consulting with BIPOC stakeholders and compiling resources for our community. This plan will take time to develop and implement and we will keep you informed as we progress. 

In the meantime, we have started adding readings and resources on our website and share some recent conversations hosted by our friends at the Canadian Urban Institute: 

How Do We Respond to Anti-Black Racism in Urbanist Practices and Conversations -Part 1 

How Do We Respond to Anti-Black Racism in Urbanist Practices and Conversations -Part 2 

We know that many of you are passionate about issues of justice, inclusion, and equity and we thank everyone who has submitted thoughts and suggestions on the way forward. Your participation will be sought as our equity and justice initiatives start to take shape. We continue to welcome feedback through info@raic.org

The RAIC board of directors struck a Truth and Reconciliation (TRC) Task Force in February 2020 with the mandate to advance the vision of sharing truth and making reconciliation a reality. Currently, the TRC Task Force is inviting participation from two Indigenous architects. If you are interested, email ITF@raic.org before August 31, 2020. 

• The RAIC board of directors is in the process of updating the organizational strategic plan in the face of COVID-19, and reviewing priorities for the next 12 to 18 months 
• The RAIC continues to participate in bi-monthly national Construction Industry Roundtable meetings led by the Public Services and Procurement Canada 
• The RAIC is an active member of the Main Street Action Network, led by the Canadian Urban Institute, 
• The RAIC is a steering committee member in Bring Back Main Street coalition
  

We continue to monitor the situation and the restrictions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic in each province and territory.

As of now, all in-person events and activities scheduled to take place in-person until September 30, 2020 will be in a virtual format. For the remainder of 2020 (October – December), we will re-evaluate after this first wave of initial re-opening and will be making decisions by mid-September 2020.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact info@raic.org