Students of color find it difficult to navigate through architecture schools. Many of those talented students never get a chance to graduate and pursue their careers. 

According to AIA Philadelphia, Justice Alliance in Design Education (JADE-PHL) was created to systematically address the long standing problem of social inequity in architecture education. Even though many have tried before, students and faculty of color often find themselves in existential crises due to the difficulties they face in the educational environment. Addressing the cause of the problem with sympathy is JADE-PHL’s mission. 

Formed in 2019, JADE-PHL comprises seven Philadelphia Area Design Schools and seven Philadelphia area non-profits and industry associations. Over 100 academics, leaders and practitioners have attended at least one meeting over the years, but they have an active group of 25 consistent members. 

With the financial support of all the schools in the alliance, JADE-PHL co-created a city-wide plan to catalyze the cultural and structural changes needed. Promoting multiculturalism and LGBTQIA+ inclusivity 

To learn more about JADE-PHL initiatives, click here.