On June 2, 2020,?the RAIC?released an initial statement?regarding systemic racism and the subsequent protests due to unjust actions or lack of action. Building on that initial commentary, the RAIC further clarified that it stands in solidarity with Black people across the USA and Canada. “We were filled with sadness and outraged about the deaths of Black people at the hands of law enforcement,” says the RAIC.
The RAIC states that it acknowledges Canada’s history of colonialism, white supremacy, and?continued?systemic racism which disproportionately affects Black?communities across the country.? The organization also acknowledges that in this history of colonialism and white supremacy, there is ongoing systemic oppression of Indigenous peoples in Canada. “As architects, we must look critically at our complacency and?the?perpetuation of white supremacy and racism,” says the RAIC. “As a profession, we must be committed to our values which include equality, justice, diversity, and inclusivity. The RAIC is committed to working towards a strategy that ensures that the organization is anti-racist and anti-oppressive?and recent strategic planning with the board of directors and RAIC staff, validated those priorities.”
The RAIC further states that it understands that it needs to reposition itself on issues of equity and justice including (1) broadening participation in the RAIC, (2) expanding access to the RAIC and (3) integrating equity and...