AIGA Boston stands with the Black community, and against racism in all forms. We acknowledge the multitude of emotions that you may be feeling, and rightfully so. For generations, racism and the oppressive systems and violence it breeds, including the deadly policing of Black communities, has greatly cost us all. We share this message in memory of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd, Tony McDade, and the many known and unknown victims of anti-Black violence.
As designers, we must actively practice anti-racism within ourselves, communities, and workplaces to create an industry that meaningfully values the lives, voices, and work of Black designers. As a chapter, we amplify Black designers by producing and promoting events that center their expertise, conducting an annual scholarship program for underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students and a biennial mentorship program for emerging designers.
Still, we have more work to do. As a board, we will be devoting time identifying what that work will look like for the 2020-2021 season and beyond, and we will be sharing those updates with you.
Every action we take must serve ALL members of our community. In service of you and especially our Black community members, our board members are donating to the following local and regional organizations:
If you can, please consider supporting them or similar organizations as well.
If you are looking for other ways to show up as an ally, here are some places to get started. This list of resources is by no means exhaustive:
We hear you. We see you. We have more work to do. Please reach out to our Co-director of Diversity & Inclusion if you are interested in collaborating with us in this work: jess@boston.aiga.org.
Stay safe and be well,
AIGA Boston Board of Directors
#blacklivesmatter
