World Industrial Design Day is coming up and we’re talking #diversity – Join the event and get involved
On June 29th we are celebrating World Industrial Design Day by listening and talking about diversity. Among the many ways to get involved, start by taking the survey about gender diversity in the design industry by the World Design Organization.
World Industrial Design Day is the first international observance that highlights the merits of designers and their impact on our quality of life. It was started in 2007 on the 50th anniversary of the World Design Organization on June 29th as a day to actively engage design professionals and design enthusiasts to explore their creativity, innovation, vision and passion in recognition of the role of industrial design and designers in our society.
Over the last decade, each year on this day, over 50 events are held in more than 25 countries. Many international cities, such as Helsinki, New York City, Montreal, Taipei and Torino have proclaimed June 29 as World Industrial Design Day.
What’s happening this year? A 24-hour virtual event
On June 28-29, 2021, WDO will be hosting let’s talk: diversity, a 24-hour virtual event that will feature over 40 sessions of conversation, workshops, and discussion panels with designers around the world! Through a series of moderated sessions, WDO is shedding light on personal and professional experiences and exploring the pulse of diversity across various countries, disciplines and cultures.
To date, over 50 speakers are expected to participate and to join conversations around a juxtaposition of themes and topics throughout the 24 hours. The event is free to attend and can be watched on Zoom or Facebook.
Design events are making a comeback this year! Don’t miss the Highlights from Austrian design month – Designmonat Graz 2021.
How to get involved?
There are many ways in which you can celebrate World Industrial Design Day, and WDO has made a list of contributions you could make, to get you inspired. For instance, you can request a Proclamation for World Industrial Design Day from your local mayor’s office to support your initiatives and to raise awareness about June 29th. You can also dive into WDO’s design books collection and discover your new favourite!
Take the survey about gender diversity in design!
This year, the most significant way to participate in WIDD is by taking the survey created by WDO to collect data about gender diversity. Their aim is to better understand the current state of the design industry and to push for fair gender representation. The survey is anonymous and should take 5-7 minutes to complete.
Take the survey before July 31, 2021!
You can also participate in the 2021 Queer Design Count to collect data about the LGBTQ+ community in design. Head to the Interview with Rebecca Brooker (she/her) to know more about it!
About the author
A Lebanese Graphic Designer, who studied at Politecnico di Milano. My unceasing curiosity for design brought me to Milan to explore this world of infinite possibilities.
Linkedin