EDUCATE
While Simone was working three jobs to pay for college, she noticed her white peers were scoring internships at engineering and construction firms where they had family connections. “Opportunities just didn’t present themselves to me,” she says. “But I continued working hard and learning as much as I could.” Gaining momentum Organizations like BlackLAN, ASLA, the NALP, Landscape Institute and others are making inclusivity and diversity a priority, issuing statements and forming subcommittees to spark change. “At this very important moment in our country and our world, it is essential that we work together to solve our biggest problems– bridging deep, tribal divisions, creating new opportunities and rebuilding a sense of community at a time of fear and isolation,” says Torey Carter-Conneen, ALSA’s new CEO. “It is going to take innovative and thoughtful solutions to tightly weave the fabric of our society back together. ASLA is an organization
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WHETHER IT’S LIGHTING, DRAINAGE, OUTDOOR SPACES OR SIDEWALKS, EVERYONE DESERVES ACCESS TO THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF GOOD DESIGN
with a rich history and significant role to play leading this work, both in the design world and beyond it. I’m honored, humbled and incredibly excited to help the society and the landscape architecture profession forge a new path forward to effectively address the growing challenges of the climate crisis, the urgent need for racial and social justice, and the stark realities and disruption of social norms caused by a global pandemic.” Now, more than ever, landscape professionals have the power to make a tangible difference in neighborhoods and communities. Good landscaping, strong urban planning and solid design contribute to a better quality of life. “I feel so fortunate to be in this role,” says Simone. “We’re not only creating more functional spaces and better access for its citizens–we’re creating equity.” “Good design is for everyone,” she continues. “Whether it’s lighting, drainage, outdoor spaces or sidewalks, everyone deserves access to the basic principles of good design.”
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