Established in 2013 as the RAIC Moriyama Prize, the RAIC International Prize was created based on the belief of Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama that remarkable architecture has the power to transform society by promoting humanistic values of social equality, respect, and inclusiveness. It aims to create environments that contribute to the well-being of all people.
This year, the Prize has been expanded to encompass the broader and ever-evolving mission, vision, and values of the RAIC and Canadian architects, from coast to coast to coast and focuses on the theme of "Indigenous Architecture" to acknowledge and celebrate Indigenous practitioners who incorporate Indigenous knowledge, ways of knowing and doing in the built and natural environment.
The 2024 theme aligns with the principles set out by Canada’s of Truth & Reconciliation Commission since 2008 about how we treat each other as fellow human beings and the kind of relationships and communities we want to build for the future highlighting the significance of recognizing and honoring Indigenous knowledge and contributions in the field of architecture.