Have Times Changed?

Have times changed? Today I share a story of blatant discrimination about which I have barely spoken in 28 years. Moving through my early tenure of AIA service, I seldom experienced the glass ceiling at either the local or state levels; my colleagues were thrilled to have me move into leadership positions. They were excited to have the help I offered as an energetic young practitioner in addition to my perspective as a woman in the profession.

When I leap-frogged over the Virginia board to join the national AIA Board of Directors in 1995, my head bumped the glass with greater force. At age thirty-eight, I was quite young for that group and spent my first several meetings sitting quietly and listening intently. My particular scene unfolded at the board meeting in September 1996. As the assemblage discussed the leadership and management structure of our professional society, I mustered my courage to speak, “To me, it would make sense if the three elected vice presidents held portfolios of responsibility that aligned with the main areas of focus for the organization: advocacy, membership, and communication.” The EVP/CEO of the AIA immediately quipped, “That is the dumbest thing I have ever heard.” Many snickered, but I was crushed. A few minutes later, another person, a man and an individual of authority as a member of the executive committee, recommended precisely the same proposal as mine. His statement was accepted enthusiastically, voted upon immediately, and passed unanimously. What?!? I was even more devastated.

The volunteer and staff structure – in one form or other – accepted that auspicious day has remained in place at the AIA since. Even now, new members receive a packet that features the AIA’s three pillars: advocacy, community, and knowledge.

I was appalled that the organization’s chief executive would treat a board member in such a dismissive manner. I found it even more outrageous that my rejected suggestion, when uttered by a man minutes later, was widely embraced. At that moment, I could have turned and run but I was resolute. I dug in my heels more firmly, determined to prove my worth to him, to those other board members, and to my wider swath of colleagues.

Mine is not a singular example of hurtful words, shocking behaviors, or egregious treatments experienced by women, people of color, and young professionals. Many individuals among these traditionally under-represented segments of our profession have endured some level of discrimination or intimidation, sometimes subtle and sometimes not so, and I deeply empathize. (Others have escaped being the recipient of this comportment; you are the fortunate ones.)

MANY AIA leaders and members have worked (and are working still) devotedly toward change for GOOD. I hope I live long enough to witness times characterized by full respect, strong regard, and sincere inclusion. Times that truly HAVE changed!

Photo Credit: William Stewart Photography, December 2013