Open Architecture Collaborative

Open Architecture Collaborative, Inc. (OAC) is a global learning network mobilizing architects and designers with technical skills to build capacity with communities experiencing systemic marginalization for racial equity. The OAC network benefits from a diverse member base with over a decade of community driven design experience. The flagship activity is the Local Chapter initiative which provides structure to volunteer capacity and guides people towards collaborative community efforts. The pilot training program is called Pathways to Equity which builds on our collective experiences using design to build community capacity. Founded on our values of allyship and co-creation, the organization provides trainings, materials, and connections to mentors to augment the traditional design training to build our community development abilities. Skills like community engagement, facilitation, policy analysis, allyship, power dynamics, research, unconscious bias and more aid in our ability to build trust with community partners. Opportunities for direct action with community partners are made available to those who are committed to the mission of building relationships to dismantle systems of oppression in the constructed environment.