#UNSEEN: Being Vulnerable Together

When we decided that #UNSEEN was going to be this year’s blog focus, we couldn’t have imagined how COVID-19 would impact the world. We have been social distancing, working virtually and finding new ways of collaborating because of sheltering at home. Although this is our new temporary normal, it has also offered a very relevant perspective into the disparities that vulnerable populations are facing daily.  In times like these, where do you shelter if you are homeless?  

We recently completed the planning of an emergency shelter for individuals who identify as female.  When it is completed, it will be part of a continuum of care toward ending homelessness in the Twin Cities. This has given us insight into another’s world and that has changed us by not only challenging our role as designers, but our larger responsibility as members of a global society.

While those who have lived homeless experience are not the only vulnerable, similar questions can be pondered for under-resourced communities and marginalized populations. During this heightened time of isolation, how can we shift our view to see others? 

As a service industry, we provide vision for our clients’ projects helping to look at things differently.  Reflecting on how this pandemic is shaping us, we see three things as being vital for radical social change: humbleness, generosity and hopefulness. Humbleness puts others perspectives and realities above our own so we can gain understanding and compassion. With so many suffering losses, we can all be generous in a kind word or deed. In this vulnerable space of a future unknown, we can serve each other and see each other’s humanity, which creates a sense of togetherness.  And yes, these are trying times, but we will be better because we will know better and therefore do better.

At some point, we will emerge into a “new normal” where we can look at things differently and embrace how we have been changed. There will be good in all of this as we all find new ways to share, create, innovate and inspire.  Here’s something that has inspired us! It is not only the message, but also the creative spirit of talented collaborators who bring a message of hope.  It is our hope that all is well with you.

Be Well!

Alicia