Design By Diversity Block Party

K-12 STEAM education

Expand existing project, program, or initiative (expanding and continuing ongoing, successful work)

Design By Diversity, a committee of ACLA, aims to improve diversity in LA's architecture, engineering, and design fields. Partnering with LAUSD, Compton USD, and Downey USD, we inspire marginalized and immigrant students to pursue these careers. This initiative fosters civic participation and strengthens LA's urban fabric through a diverse talent pipeline, creating a more inclusive, resident-friendly region. ​The lack of diversity in architecture, engineering, and design impacts the profession, built environment, and society. NCARB data shows African Americans are 13.6% of the U.S. population but only 1.8% of licensed architects. Women make up less than 25% of architects, with Black women under 0.5%. Licensed landscape architects include 0.8% Black professionals and 0.3% Black women, while women are 39%. Interior design has only 1.5% Black practitioners, despite being female-dominated. Asians are 6.6% and Hispanic/Latino architects 4.9% of NCARB holders.

Support from LA2050 will expand the Design by Diversity (DxD) Block Party, addressing the lack of diversity in architecture, engineering, and design (AED). If awarded the grant in 2025, we will (1) increase student funding, (2) enhance outreach, and (3) introduce online components to extend the event's impact.
Increased Student Funding: Financial support through design competitions will help underrepresented students pursue careers in these fields, offering opportunities for talent showcase and networking.
Increased Outreach: Targeted efforts will ensure participation from marginalized and immigrant communities.
New Online Components:
· Online resources for teachers, including educational activities.
· Accessible recordings of keynotes and ceremonies.
· Updated resources on educational pathways, scholarships, and professional opportunities.
Ongoing Block Party Features:
· Over 50 volunteer booths with activities and information on educational pathways.
· Inspiring speeches from Southern California students.
· One-on-one mentorship with professionals.
· Showcasing scholarship-winning student work.
· Recognizing student achievements with awards.
· Family-friendly environment accessible for all with free food and beverages.
The expanded DxD Block Party will raise awareness, provide resources, and celebrate diversity in AED. With LA2050's support, we will inspire and empower a diverse new generation, fostering an inclusive and equitable industry that reflects LA's rich diversity.

Increased funding & resources for underrepresented students will boost diversity among professionals, leading to inclusive & innovative designs serving LA's diverse communities. Enhanced mentorship will create a diverse talent pipeline, making careers in these fields accessible to all. Bringing perspectives responsive to the needs of immigrant, Black, Hispanic, & Indigenous residents, ensuring projects authentically serve marginalized communities. DxD will strengthen civic engagement, making residents feel represented in planning processes. Online resources & educational activities will extend the event's impact year-round. Parents & teachers will encourage children to pursue these careers. LA will model diversity & inclusion, benefiting from a built environment promoting equity, accessibility, & sustainability with community-centered spaces that enhance the quality of life. The success of DxD will position LA as a national leader in diversity and inclusion within the AED industries.

We assess the impact of DxD on diversity in AED through various methods:
Measuring Impact:
· Attendance: Tracking annual attendance to gauge reach & growth, with increasing numbers indicating rising interest from underrepresented communities.
· Surveys & Feedback: Collecting attendee insights to understand the event's impact on career attitudes & diversity.
· Website Engagement: Monitoring traffic & engagement metrics to extend the event's impact online (pending grant).
Indicators of Success:
· Feedback & Surveys: Positive feedback demonstrates the event's effectiveness in inspiring underrepresented groups.
· Professional Partnerships: Ongoing participation of industry partners underscores the event's value for K-12 students.
· Educational Partnerships: Collaborations with LA, Downey, Compton USD, & higher education institutions, providing broader resource access.
· Increased Engagement: Higher website traffic & online participation indicate sustained interest (pending grant).