News

The Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario has a continued commitment to foster and uphold diversity and inclusion in the interior design profession and values each of our members, their qualifications, and their right to practice Interior Design in Ontario.

On June 8, 2020, the ARIDO Board reflected upon and discussed recent global events, including feedback received from some members. ARIDO recognizes it is in a position to be a stronger industry leader that addresses the under-representation of Black, Indigenous and people of colour within the interior design profession and accelerate the association’s work to uphold equity and diversity. ARIDO condemns the biases, conscious or otherwise, that affect the paths of racialized interior designers in this industry. ARIDO has a continued commitment to uphold diversity in the interior design profession in Ontario through programs such as the Intern Competencies Review System (ICRS) which provides a path into membership for internationally trained individuals and our ROI charity initiative which has restored dignity to various groups of marginalized Ontarians.

With the 2020/21 Strategic Plan, the Board and staff see an opportunity to review all upcoming priorities and initiatives to determine where we can enhance and raise the association’s commitment to accessibility, equity, diversity, and inclusion. A Diversity and Inclusivity committee will be formed to examine these concerns in detail, and provide recommendations to the Board of Management and membership for implementation.
The Board is updating all ARIDO committees and mandating them to explore ways for improvement across the organization within the context of their current mandate. As this work begins, we will keep the membership informed of their initiatives and progress.

ARIDO takes its role as a leader in the Ontario design community seriously and is committed to supporting all current and potential members on their career path, building community through important initiatives such as our mentorship program, and ensuring all interior designers in Ontario feel included, supported, and represented.

If you have feedback or experiences to share with the Board, or would like to submit your candidacy for the Diversity and Inclusivity committee, please complete this online form.

Yours truly,
The ARIDO Board of Management and Staff