Justice in all its forms. In these LinkedIn writings, I have endeavored to keep my religious beliefs and political opinions very much in the wings. My apologies, today, if I offend anyone who might hold a different position than my own, as I shall place those at center stage. I already had a message teed up for this month, but my Pastor’s sermon last Sunday moved me to address an enduringly crucial issue for our profession: justice. While his message focused on the LGBTQ+ community, mine relates to justice in all its forms.
The current political maelstrom might try to convince us of a differing narrative. However, we as the AIA cannot become inaudible (or worse, mute) on the issues of justice that are so important to our profession and to society. If anything, our drumbeat must grow in intensity and escalate in volume. Through several decades, many AIA leaders (including myself) dedicated their volunteer service to uplifting all traditionally underrepresented individuals and groups. In our profession: women, people of color, the queer community, and young professionals (among others). In society: individuals with disabilities, underserved populations, and more recently, neuro-diverse persons (among others). These efforts took many years (too many), but the needle was beginning to move with increasing velocity!
I am proud to be part of a professional society that spoke so definitively on the topic of justice in its 2021-2025 Strategic Plan. Of late, I have been pleased that so many local and state AIA components still hold true to these beliefs through their own strategic planning efforts, endeavoring to push – aside and away – any traditionally held boundaries.
Dear Colleagues, I invited you to think, if you will, about these:
– Justice. Even when it is unpopular, we must exercise justice in our actions and policies.
– Equity. Even as others would have us believe otherwise, we know from our Heavenly Father and our founding fathers that all persons are created equal.
– Diversity. Even if it is difficult, we must welcome diverse faces and voices into our midst.
– Inclusion. Even though others do not believe it is of value, we must include a host of differing perspectives.
The 2007 movie “Pirates of the Caribbean – At World’s End” popularized the term, “Hoist the Colours” as well as a song by the same name.
“Amen” to my Minister … and “Ahoy” to those pirates … indeed! Wave the banner of inclusion. Raise the pennant of diversity. Fly the flag of equity. HOIST THE COLORS OF JUSTICE!
Photo Credit: Cave Spring United Methodist Church ‘s commitment, Reverend Joshua King, Pastor
Justice in All Forms
The Three Aspens 