Becoming a True JEDI: Allyship for Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Understanding the principles of JEDI (justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion) is important. However, it’s only when you demonstrate that understanding through your actions that you can make a difference in the world. One crucial way is to become an ally. In this panel discussion, we will build on the information learned at last year’s roundtable—The Diversity Problem in the AEC Industry. We’ll address real actions we can take to understand how JEDI issues affect the AEC industry, and specific steps we can take to become allies. Attendees will learn from speakers' experiences about how being an ally can encourage inclusion that is mutually beneficial for team collaboration, diversity of ideas, and inclusivity through leadership. During this session we will explore what it means to be an ally specifically in the AEC space, look at ways panelists and attendees have seen allies help others, and discuss what it takes to become an ally.