Presented by Gensler, Organized by the LGBTQIA+ Alliance
Kaleidoscope – The Prism of Queer Architecture is a program series presented by the AIA Dallas
LGBTQIA+ Alliance to enhance the visibility of queer architects, connect the Dallas architecture community with a broader audience, and create a clearer picture of what architects can contribute beyond architecture. Since their founding in 2021, the Alliance has worked to create a space for queer architects in Dallas, and the Kaleidoscope program will help continue that effort.
Kaleidoscope intends to create pathways for mentorship by queer educators and architects to students, young architects, and emerging professionals; to educate the architecture community and queer community about the history of and contributions by queer architects; and highlight the importance of queer visibility in the profession while educating architecture and design firms on how to support their queer employees.
Key to the program is providing the opportunity for young queer architects and students to see themselves reflected in the profession of architecture. Older generations of queer architects entered the field as a silent minority, often remaining in the closet throughout their careers. While they were part of architecture, they had no guidance on how to be successful as queer individuals and no visible queer architects to connect with as mentors.
Each Kaleidoscope event will offer participants the opportunity to change this dynamic by connecting with potential mentors both inside and outside of the architecture community. In addition, young architects and emerging professionals will have the opportunity to establish themselves as mentors to students while potentially mentoring established architects they meet during various events.
KALEIDOSCOPE SERIES EVENTS
Thursday, April 11: Building Leaders for a More Inclusive Tomorrow at UTA CAPPA
In-person panel discussion on mentorship, focusing on the ACE Mentor Program as well as firm-led mentorship programs.
Thursday, May 23: Creating Positive and Supportive School Environments Zoom Webinar
Virtual panel discussion between queer educators, including members of QuEAN, and students and architects across the U.S. Panel will be moderated the AIA Dallas LGBTQIA+ Alliance. Virtual platform will be provided by AIA Dallas
Monday, June 3: Architecture on Tap: Queer Visibility Through Storytelling at Craft & Growler
Queer visibility through a storytelling panel featuring Texas-based contributors to Out in Architecture, a collection of 24 essays by queer architects and designers. Panelists will talk about the catalyst behind Out in Architecture, their own experiences in the profession, and how firm owners can support their queer employees.
Tuesday, June 11: Queer Architects Exhibit and Reception at AD EX
Opening of Queer Architects Exhibit at the AD EX (Architecture and Design Exchange) in Dallas, highlighting the stories and work of queer architects and designers of past and present. The Exhibit will run through June 28th.
Presenting Sponsor
Sponsorship opportunities currently available for the Kaleidoscope series are listed below. Availability of sponsorships are subject to change without notice. Please contact Cristina Fitzgerald at cfitzgerald@aiadallas.org to secure your sponsorship today!
| Prism Sponsor | $750 | Formal recognition as sponsor at all Kaleidoscope events. Company logo on event signage and all digital promotions. |
| Session Sponsor | $500 | Recognition as sponsor at a Kaleidoscope event of choice. Company logo on event signage and all digital promotions. |
ABOUT THE AIA DALLAS LGBTQIA+ ALLIANCE
LGBTQIA+ Alliance seeks to bring together members who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ family and allies to build community, mentorship, and career opportunities. We aim to amplify the stories of our LGBTQIA+ members and celebrate their achievements and to advocate for and advance equitable experiences within the AIA and its member firms.