Mission Statement: 

The JEDI Committee is committed to expanding and improving upon our ongoing efforts. We focus on integrating best practices for justice, equity, diversity and inclusion into policy, values and programming focused on landscape architecture throughout Ohio.

Committee Chair: 

Andre Banerjee, ASLA

Justice: The goal of addressing inequities to foster equitable participation of all groups and acknowledging systemic and historical barriers to access of power, education and other opportunities for personal activity and social privileges 

Equity: Ensuring that everyone has support and access to the resources needed to be successful and identifying and eliminating both structural and personal barriers that have prevented the full participation of communities most impacted by systemic oppressions 

Diversity: The range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values systems, national origin, political beliefs, and cultures

Inclusion: Ensuring that people of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, perspectives, and beliefs have an equitable opportunity to belong, achieve success, and contribute in positive ways to their communities.

Vision:

The Ohio Chapter ASLA strives to understand, address and amplify the experiences and needs of underrepresented landscape architects and designers throughout Ohio. 

The JEDI Committee serves as a conduit between the greater Ohio community and Ohio Chapter ASLA leadership to encourage open dialogue and prioritize best practices related to Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

The face of landscape architecture needs to include more diverse experiences and backgrounds. We strive to create a professional and educational environment throughout the state of Ohio where each person feels included and supported, especially BIPOC individuals (Black, Indigenous, People of Color).

Goals:

1. Increase diversity within the profession of landscape architecture within Ohio
2. Educate the public about the importance of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
3. Amplify the needs of underrepresented students, professionals and partners

Events and Initiatives:

• The Annual Centering Diversity Summit
• An interactive workshop for students K-12 introducing them to landscape architecture through the lens of JEDI
• A presentation for seniors (aged 55+) introducing them to landscape architecture through the lens of JEDI
• A fund to provide financial support to JEDI initiatives and events
• A scholarship to provide BIPOC students in landscape architecture with financial support for college
• A virtual town hall for students and professionals to convey their needs 
• Social media spotlights for diverse designers
• Speaker series centered on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion
• National coordination with ASLA state chapter DEI leaders across the U.S. to collaborate and strategize best practices

Subcommittees:

• Events
• Education
• Research
• Marketing

Committee Member Overview:

• Must be an Ohio Chapter member (per Ohio Chapter bylaws)
• Committee members will be asked to attend a monthly virtual call
• Committee members will also be asked to help plan and attend events
• Typical term is 1 year (flexible)
• No application necessary