On Friday, June 24th, the Supreme Court of the United States of America made the decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, putting many women in the United States at grave risk and stripping away their rights to bodily autonomy. We were saddened and angered by this news. But from that anger comes an opportunity to reassess the ways in which we can show up for and support our employees and the women in our community.

As a women-owned business also comprised of 70% women, we know first-hand the challenges for individuals who choose both parenthood and a career in architecture, which is an often unforgiving field. However, in our Partners’ experience, the key to overcoming those challenges has been just that – having a choice. A choice in timing, in the community that supports you, and in the ways in which you invest in your family.

In the latest survey by Equity by Design conducted in 2017, only 29% of leadership roles in this field are held by women. If we want to promote more women to the highest levels of management and design, it is imperative we also fight for their right to make their own medical and life decisions.

At QA, we unapologetically support women and acknowledge that the Supreme’s Court decision will disproportionally affect Black, brown, and underserved communities the most. While our staff is primarily located in California where women’s rights are currently protected, we offer our support, financially and emotionally, for our employees who are residing elsewhere. We will remain a safe place for women and offer resources to lessen their burdens. We are here for you.