This 4-part series will explore the dramatic story of architect-led community change and its lessons today, as well as comparative models and approaches to design leadership that mobilizes engaged architects for community transformations.
“We are the last generation that can prevent irreparable damage to our planet,” noted United Nations General Assembly President Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garcés in 2019. Today’s climate crisis means our cities and towns serve as more than simply the hubs of economic and cultural vitality. In an era of climate change, our communities represent the central organizing mechanisms for the survival of humankind. This reality positions communities at the heart of our solutions to all the world’s most pressing issues, from the affordability crisis to a climate-friendly future. However, at the time we urgently need effective decision-making, a democratic crisis is contributing to political paralysis, controversy and loss of public trust in institutions the world over. Professionals must adopt a new democratic orientation that empower citizens to codesign solutions. Member surveys have demonstrated in the past that over 75% of architects believe community engagement to be important. We can’t afford to sit on the sidelines now. The stakes are too high. It’s time to recommit ourselves to public service, jump start the democratic process, honor the citizen architect tradition and galvanize the next wave of design leadership in our communities.
This series is intended for civic leaders, architects, and other design professionals looking to make a difference in their community. Presented in partnership with Communities by Design (CxD).
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