Marginalized by Design

Abstract

Each day we spend our working hours in the newly remodeled Hayes Hall, the University at Buffalo ’ s School of Architecture and Planning signature building. We enjoy the beautiful light streaming through the tall windows and often sit in the alcoves made possible by the thick walls of the historic landmark. On the hour, we hear bells from the clock tower; they beckon us back to a different time when the university was still young. Installed in 1928, each of the four bells bears an inscription related to learning. One of the quotes reads: “ In this light, may science and religion labor here together for the steady evolution of mankind from darkness to light; from prejudice to tolerance; from narrowness to broadmindedness. ” 1 Despite being in the language of its time, this inscription is still relevant today. However, it also calls us to re fl ect to an even earlier history of the building when these bricks and mortar told another story.