“Decolonizing Practice” presented by Shalini Agrawal, Associate Professor of Critical Ethnic Studies and Interdisciplinary Studios at CCA & Founder of Public Design for Equity. TuSA annual Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Lecture.

In-Person Lecture | Sept. 26, 5:15pm - 7pm CT

Architecture as a discipline has inherent connections to land, community and global culture. Yet “standard” design practices are limited by Eurocentric assumptions and colonial mindsets. This lecture will examine how systems of architectural design sustain exclusionary and harmful practices and reinforce colonial legacies. With this in mind, we will build an understanding of what “decolonization” entails from the point of view of non-indigenous designers in the global north. We will discuss architects’ roles and responsibilities in unlearning colonizing mindsets and introduce practices that move from performative actions to personal accountability.

After her initial presentation, Agrawal will be joined by a faculty respondent for an interdisciplinary conversation about her remarks and to answer any audience questions. The faculty respondent is: Edson Cabalfin, Ph.D. (Associate Dean for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Director of the Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship Program, & Professor of Practice in Design Thinking at Tulane School of Architecture) for an interdisciplinary conversation about her remarks and to answer any audience questions.

The lecture will take place in Kendall Cram Lecture Hall in Tulane University's Lavin-Bernick Center. This lecture is open to the public through registration below. This event will follow all Tulane and CDC COVID-19 restrictions.