We are pleased to share the most recent newsletter from the North American Coalition of Lighting Industry Queers in our Press Room.
Dear Friends and Allies…
As we step into 2025, it’s hard not to see just how much NACLIQ means in this current climate. In the face of social, political, and cultural crisis, particularly around issues of gender identity, sexual orientation, and race, our work as a cooperative community has never been more important. The world around us is shifting dynamically, demanding as equally dynamic shift in intentional, visible support for diversity, equity, inclusion, respect, resilience, radical action, and whatever else we need the R to stand for. Our voices, our commitment to queer, trans, and gender-expansive rights, and our determination to create an inclusive space where everyone is seen and valued is needed now more than ever.
Rest assured that in our industry which is often slow to change, NACLIQ will not disappear. Our role is to ensure that DEI efforts in the lighting and architectural design fields aren’t just buzzwords or fleeting trends—but a visible, ongoing, and foundational part of how we move forward as an industry.
This fall we had our first strategic planning session, and discussed our goals for the upcoming year, outlined below. We have a heavy focus on staying connected and inspired to combat the constant “shock and awe” tactics being rolled out as the new administration rolls in. We are already engaged in planning several events, and are particularly excited about the webinar we’re planning to co-host with the IES DEIR Committee and the Business of Light focused on the business case of DEIR, which will be coming up this Spring. Stay tuned for more details. We’re also in the planning stages of another Advocacy Social to be held at Lightfair in Las Vegas – more to come on that! In the meantime, we look forward to our first Quarterly Chapter Check-in on March 5th at 3 PM ET – mark your calendar and save this link – all are welcome.
This is not an easy time, and we have no easy task. But we are at a pivotal moment when our collective voices—especially those of queer, trans, and gender-expansive professionals—are absolutely vital in shaping a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible industry. The work we do, the stories we share, and the spaces we create for each other are key to ensuring that the lighting and design fields continue to evolve toward a future that values people from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.
We need each of you in this effort—whether you’re advocating for inclusive practices at your own workplace, participating in our programs, or simply being a part of a supportive network that champions these values. Together, we will continue to raise our voices, increase our visibility, and build a future where everyone in our industry is empowered and respected.
With love,
The NACLIQ Executive Board
