The International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) has created a Task Force on Diversity and Inclusion and released a Statement in Support of Racial Equality.
The task force, chaired by IIBEC members André Coppin, RRC, RRO, of Cornerstone Architectural Group, Kenmore, WA; and IIBEC Region V Director Szymon Zienkiewicz, RRC, RRO, PE, of Larsen Zienkiewicz, Inc., Pasadena, CA, is composed of 12 individuals representing all IIBEC regions. Its mission is to “champion diversity and inclusion issues in the building enclosure industry,” providing leadership for such as the standard for IIBEC and the industry “through its programs, products, and services.” It is tasked with developing and implementing “a comprehensive strategy to bring about meaningful changes that will address institutionalized racism and biases” in the industry.
“I am in full support of IIBEC and its response to the movement against racial biases,” said Coppin. “This movement will be for the betterment of our society and for future generations. The formation of the task force is a first step on a long journey, but, I am confident the cadre of minds and people that make up our great industry will rise to walk this path.”
Cochair Zienkiewicz added, “I am proud that IIBEC has committed to addressing racial inequalities within our industry and to provide opportunities for those under-represented—specifically those in the black community. Standing up in unison with our industry affiliates, acknowledging the issues, and appointing a task force are strong first steps. I look forward to contributing and collaborating on the task force to listen to those affected and work together with our members, leadership, and industry to craft an action plan for how we can be better and do more.”
IIBEC President Scott Hinesley, RRC, PE, REI Engineers, Charlotte, NC, noted, “IIBEC as an institution is dedicated to inclusiveness and equality. I am thrilled that the association is actively promoting these ideals as a basic cornerstone of our organization, and I look forward to working with the task force to help move our society to an equitable one for all.”
The Statement in Support of Racial Equality, approved by the board of directors, is as follows:
As an organization, The International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) stands firmly in support of efforts to eradicate racial injustice and provide opportunity for under-represented communities. Our association will work together with our members and industry partners to champion efforts that create sustainable transformation in our profession.
We encourage our members to:
IIBEC is committed to be inclusive of all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. As an organization, we will focus on areas of growth—both as individuals and as a collective group. IIBEC is devoted to developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy to bring about meaningful change. We are here to listen; we are here to support; and we are here to work together to build an equitable future for our industry.
— Approved by the IIBEC Executive Committee, July 13, 2020
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