DCA, California Architects Board Celebrate Contributions of Black Americans in Architecture

The California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) celebrates the contributions and sacrifices of Black Americans who have helped shape and build the communities we live in today. To end the celebration of Black History Month, our department reflects on the importance of Black History Month and will continue to honor the achievements, and legacies of Black Americans. To honor the contributions to the world we live in, the California Architects Board (CAB) highlights the work and impact of important figures that have helped shape architecture.

Robert Kennard was born in Los Angeles and graduated from University of Southern California where he earned an architectural degree and later become licensed by CAB. He was a role model for young people of color aspiring to become architects and active in numerous community organizations, including both the Los Angeles and California chapters of the American Institute of Architects (AIA). In 1957, he established Kennard Design Group (KDG) Architecture and Planning, noted as the oldest Black-owned and operated architecture firm in Los Angeles.

Norma Merrick Sklarek was a pioneer in the field of architecture. In the1960's, she became one of the first Black women to be licensed in California. Her brilliance, passion, and perseverance allowed her to overcome racism, uplifting and guiding other minorities and women in the industry. In 2003, Sklarek was appointed to CAB and served on the Professional Qualifications and Regulatory Enforcement Committees. She is most recognized for designing the United States Embassy in Tokyo, Japan, and the Passenger Terminal 1 at the Los Angeles International Airport.

Vincent J. Proby was also highlighted for his work. One of his most notable projects is the iconic 44,000-square-foot California African American Museum (CAAM), designed alongside African American architect Jack W. Haywood. Proby was appointed to the California State Board of Architectural Examiners in 1978 (later renamed the California Architects Board) and served on the Board for eight years. He served as Secretary, Vice President, and President.

Philip "Phil" G. Freelonwas an influential architect whose work embodied African American culture and history. With a focus on public projects that empower everyday people and promote diversity, Freelon is best known as lead designer of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)- the nation's largest cultural learning space for African American history and its significance-located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. In 2016, Freelon was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Following his diagnosis, he established the Freelon ALS Fund to support research and raise awareness about the disease while also helping ALS families.

Robert Robinson Taylor was the first African American student allowed into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and was its first African American graduate. Taylor also became the first African American accredited architect in the United States. He was recruited by Booker T. Washington, founder, and first president of Tuskegee University in Alabama. Taylor not only developed the university's architecture program but also designed much of the University including the chapel, which remains in use today.

Click on the name of each of the architects above to read the full story of their contributions to the practice, or click here to read California Governor Gavin Newsom's proclamation declaring February 2024 Black History Month.

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