The following message was originally sent by the SAH Office as an email to its entire mailing list on February 12, 2025.
Dear SAH Community Members,
In these challenging times, when political and social uncertainties continue to shape our world, I want to reaffirm the Society of Architectural Historians’ unwavering commitment to global exchange, diversity, and inclusivity. As an organization with a rich legacy spanning more than 80 years, we stand on the shoulders of countless scholars and practitioners who have contributed to shaping our field. Their work continues to inspire us as we look toward the future.
Our commitment to academic freedom and public education remains steadfast, regardless of the challenges we face. We firmly believe that knowledge should transcend borders and that architectural history must reflect the voices and experiences of diverse communities worldwide.
In line with this vision, we are proud to hold our first-ever conference in the Global South, in Mexico City, a significant step in expanding our international reach and fostering cross-cultural dialogues. Additionally, we are launching new initiatives to empower the next generation of scholars and practitioners. From specialized workshops to our forthcoming mentorship program, we are creating opportunities for emerging voices to thrive, ensuring that the field remains dynamic and forward-looking.
As the president of SAH, I am also in touch with leaders of other scholarly societies and professional organizations to monitor the rapidly changing federal policy and funding situation, assess its impact on our membership and their concerns, and develop strategies going forward.
As we continue to evolve, I invite you to share your ideas and be part of this transformation. SAH is a collective endeavor, and your insights will help shape its future. Together, we will uphold academic freedom, strengthen public education, and advance a more robust, inclusive, and global field.
Thank you for your dedication to our shared mission. We look forward to working with you as we build a stronger, more inclusive SAH.
Best wishes,
Mohammad Gharipour
President, Society of Architectural Historians
