AIA response to executive orders that affect our profession

Dear AIA Community, 

Recent executive orders from the White House present challenges to our profession, clients, and communities. We assure you that despite this, AIA stands firm in its commitment to the principles of architectural excellence, sustainability, and equity.

Climate Leadership and the Paris Agreement

The United States’ withdrawal from the Paris Agreement undermines progress toward a sustainable, zero-carbon built environment. Because of AIA’s involvement and architects’ critical role in reducing emissions and enhancing resilience, global efforts like the Buildings Breakthrough Agenda were launched with the goal to achieve near-zero emissions by 2030.

AIA will continue to advance climate action by advocating for design excellence and effective policies and offering resources to empower our members. We will remain an active Observer Organization of the UNFCCC, ensuring that our members’ voices are heard in the global effort.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in Architecture

Ending federal EDI programs disrupts progress toward a profession that reflects the diversity of the communities architects serve. Equity and inclusion are essential to fostering creativity, innovation, and design excellence. AIA urges the White House to align merit-based opportunities with DEI initiatives to ensure fair recognition and competition for all.

AIA champions a diverse profession as our association strengthens architects' ability to design inclusive spaces and ensure fairness in professional opportunities. The latest AIA demographics report highlights our progress over the last decade: underrepresented racial and ethnic groups grew 5.7 points to 17.9%; and women architects rose from 16.1% to 25.7%. These gains reflect AIA's commitment to equity and representation.

Understanding diverse human contexts is fundamental to responsive design and AIA strives to become a more representative institute in our pursuit of creating a more equitable, just, resilient, and healthy built environment.

Our Shared Commitment

AIA will continue to advocate on policies related to EDI and the climate, and we remain dedicated to advancing civil rights, promoting sustainable communities, and supporting policies that uplift all populations. Together, we will lead with purpose, champion design excellence, and keep members informed as developments unfold.