About NOMA

NOMA PDX

The National Organization of Minority Architects Portland Chapter (NOMA PDX) arose out of the outcries of people that filled the streets in the summer of 2020 during the Black Lives Matter marches.

Now a nationally recognized chapter of NOMA, NOMA PDX is named as such from the local understanding that the design community in Portland reaches beyond city limits.

The impact of NOMA PDX is felt at the intersection of design and dilemmas that face the community. Portland has a turbulent history of listening to underrepresented voices. We understand there is color in Portland, and we stand resiliently through the active partnerships between non-minorities and underrepresented individuals.

These sorts of relationships help us speak against daily passive aggressions, apathy, bigotry, intolerance, and ignorance. Together we advocate for the care of the natural environment, and for the marginalized and most vulnerable community members in PDX.

through unity we succeed -

It all started when 12 African-American architects from different parts of the country met, some for the first time, during the AIA National Convention in Detroit in 1971. These professionals recognized that there was a desperate need for an organization dedicated to the development and advancement of minority architects.

Together, they formed the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA).

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LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Portland is built on top of the traditional village sites of Multnomah, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, Molalla, and so many other Tribes that constructed homes and thriving communities along the Columbia River. Join us in acknowledging the rich history of this land that we in NOMAPDX find ourselves on today.

Learn more about the land you occupy here with this map

Below is a list of local organizations we recommend you join us in supporting:

NAYA - enhances community through cultural identity & education

ONAC - advances educational & economic opportunities

NICWA - strengthens families & tribes

NARA - provides culturally appropriate education & health services