For a Liberatory Politics of Home

Michele Lancione's book "For a Liberatory Politics of Home" challenges the conventional understanding of home and homelessness by proposing that homelessness cannot be solved without dismantling current notions of home. He argues that the industry of policy interventions, knowledge production, and organizing fails to provide solutions to homelessness and perpetuates violent and precarious forms of inhabitation. Lancione suggests that a profound struggle for a differential kind of homing signals multiple possibilities to transcend the violences of home/homelessness and offers a transformative vision for a renewed, liberatory politics of home.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 03 November 2023
Publisher: Duke University Press

In his groundbreaking work, "For a Liberatory Politics of Home," Michele Lancione challenges the conventional notions of home and homelessness and presents a radical proposition: homelessness cannot be addressed without dismantling our current understanding of home. Traditionally, home is perceived as a secure and inclusive space, while its loss signifies homelessness. This binary framework has led to a plethora of policy interventions, knowledge production, and organizing efforts that fail to effectively address homelessness, instead perpetuating violent and precarious forms of habitation.

Drawing on his extensive research and activism in the field of housing in Europe, Lancione centers his analysis on the interconnected crises of home and homelessness. He argues that precarious dwelling, often overlooked or unacknowledged, holds the key to transcending the violences of home/homelessness. By reorienting the political charge towards precarious dwelling, Lancione reveals multiple possibilities for a different kind of homing that opens up avenues for liberation.

In advancing a new approach to engage with the politics of inhabitation, Lancione offers a critical critique of current practices. He challenges the dominant narratives that perpetuate the divide between home and homelessness, highlighting the systemic injustices and inequalities that contribute to this crisis. At the same time, he presents a transformative vision for a renewed and liberatory politics of home.

Lancione advocates for a holistic and intersectional approach to addressing homelessness. He emphasizes the need to address the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty, discrimination, and inadequate housing policies. He also calls for the recognition of the rights of homeless individuals and the creation of supportive policies and programs that prioritize their well-being and dignity.

Furthermore, Lancione proposes a vision of community-driven housing solutions that prioritize the participation and empowerment of homeless communities. He advocates for the development of affordable housing, community land trusts, and tenant-led housing initiatives that give people control over their living spaces and promote community cohesion.

In conclusion, "For a Liberatory Politics of Home" by Michele Lancione is a thought-provoking and transformative work that challenges our conventional understanding of home and homelessness. By reorienting the political charge towards precarious dwelling, Lancione offers a path towards a renewed and liberatory politics of home that prioritizes the well-being and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their housing status. His vision for a community-driven housing solutions and a transformative approach to work with the politics of inhabitation provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing struggle against homelessness and for a more just and inclusive society.

Weight: 452g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781478025306