Architecture: Open to All

By Jared W. Smith, AIA, NOMA  

The below is part an overall series to discuss bias and privilege within the profession of Architecture. To get a better context in which I wrote this, please see the Kick-Off page here on the Equity by Design: EQxD Get Real Series. You can also see this post on EQxD here: Architecture: Open to ALL by Jared W. Smith  


I was on a trip to China, studying abroad with my college classmates. Being a 6'-4" African American in China, I expected to stand out. One day while in Shanghai, I ventured out on my own close to the university dorms. There was an indoor market with vendors selling various small items. I walked the floor glancing at the goods. At one vendor's station, I found something of interest. They seemed very hesitant as I approached. Having been in the country for a couple weeks I was aware that I'd attract some attention but this was like no other. As I continued to peruse, I could feel their discomfort growing. It escalated to a point where they did not want me to remain at their table to purchase anything. I was shocked to be "shooed" away. A bit of calm rather than anger came over me. It was best that I hadn't made a scene in a foreign country. Later on it hit me what had occurred. 

Yes, I stand out.

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