What a time. We are living in and through perilous, unprecedented times. As current events shine a blaring light on long standing inequalities, designers can not afford to forget the responsibility they have to contribute to the cause. Let’s face it, there are systems that are designed to exclude many of us. But the good news is designers have the ability to disrupt this reality. These systems are complex, non-linear, messy and designers can help to untangle, clarify, and redesign the solutions and approaches we are using everyday.
Every design decision, no matter how big or small, can have equitable and inclusive outcomes. Our design processes should include crucial and intentional reflection on the topics of diversity, inclusion, equality, and justice. There are so many questions that linger about the intersection of design and equity. Some disconnects about what that means for us designers in tangible, real ways moving forward. It’s ok to still be learning and finding a way to codify your knowledge and apply it to your craft. It starts with a conscious effort. Design is important, designers are important, our work is important.
Start here with this short list of resources that dive deeper look at equity and design:
