In the Shadow of the Seawall: Coastal Injustice and the Dilemma of Placekeeping

In the Shadow of the Seawall explores the existential dilemma of seawalls and struggles to resist displacement in Guyana and the Maldives, highlighting the concept of placekeeping as a justice-oriented framework for addressing adaptation and coastal disruption.

Format: Hardback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 29 August 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

In the Shadow of the Seawall, a captivating journey takes us to the low-lying lands of Guyana and the Maldives, where we delve into the profound existential dilemma posed by seawalls. As the waves of ocean instability surge forth, driven by centuries of injustice, these structures have emerged as focal points of conflict and negotiation, where human struggles for power and resistance collide. Against this backdrop, the concept of placekeeping emerges as a justice-oriented framework for addressing adaptation and the global dangers of coastal disruption at the front lines of climate change. Through meticulous ethnographic observation and insightful interviews, Gray unveils the intricate web of power relations and processes of making and keeping place that entangle seawalls.

In Guyana, we witness the devastating impact of colonial ruination on the coastal communities, where seawalls are seen as a futile attempt to hold back the relentless forces of the ocean. The green seawalls, touted as a solution, often exacerbate the problem, displacing vulnerable populations and eroding the delicate ecosystems. Gray's analysis highlights the complex interplay between power, displacement, and the preservation of cultural heritage in these contexts.

In the Maldives, we explore the intricate balance between traditional practices and modern development. Seawalls are constructed to protect the islands from the encroaching sea, but they also serve as barriers to cultural exchange and migration. Gray's research sheds light on the struggles of the local communities to maintain their way of life while navigating the challenges posed by seawalls and climate change.

Through these narratives, Gray invites us to reimagine the role of seawalls in the face of climate change. Instead of being mere barriers, seawalls can be transformed into platforms for justice and resilience. By engaging with the concept of placekeeping, we can strive to create sustainable and equitable solutions that honor the rights and livelihoods of coastal communities.

In conclusion, In the Shadow of the Seawall offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationships between seawalls, power, displacement, and climate change. By shedding light on the experiences of these communities, Gray provides a valuable framework for addressing the existential dilemma of seawalls and promoting a more just and sustainable future for our coastal ecosystems.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520392731