The annual Building Equality in Architecture (BEAT) Forum is devoted to diversity and inclusion in the architecture and design industry. This year’s inaugural BEAT Forum is focused on the topic of Unconscious Bias.
Toronto has become known as the most “diverse” city in the world (BBC Radio, 2016). As such, issues surrounding ethnic, cultural and religious diversity, and discrimination of all kinds, remain at the forefront of Toronto’s contemporary society. How are these issues being addressed within the profession of architecture? How are we addressing unconscious bias in the workplace? How do the experiences of architecture students, academics and professionals differ based on their demographic background? How can we develop and promote an inclusive profession that represents the most diverse city in the world? Through a series of presentations and discussion, this event will raise awareness, share experiences and provide tools for ‘inclusion’, that will inspire the audience to become part of the solution to a more inclusive architectural profession.
Presenters
Special Presentation on Behalf of the Toronto Society of Architects
Special Presentation on Behalf of the Ontario Association of Architects
Vanessa Fong, Principal Architect, Vanessa Fong Architect and OAA Council Vice President
Special Presentation on Behalf of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada
Susan Ruptash, Principal Emeritus, Quadrangle and RAIC board member representing Ontario Southwest
Keynote Presentation on Unconscious Bias
Loreli Buenaventuram Director, Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI)
Panel Discussion
Moderator — Brigitte Shim, Principal, Shim Sutcliffe
Panelists
David Fortin, Associate Professor and Director, McEwen School of Architecture at Laurentian University
Ruba Kana’an, Assistant Professor of Islamic Art and Architecture, University of Toronto Mississauga
Fadi Masoud, Assistant Professor, Daniels Faculty at University of Toronto
Kate Nelischer, Assistant Dean of Academic and Outreach, Daniels Faculty at University of Toronto
More information about the Forum — including a full schedule of events — is available via the BEAT website, linked here.