Leisure, Activism, and the Animation of the Urban Environment

The book explores the meaning and making of activist practices, events of dissent, and the arts in everyday life, focusing on understandings and disruptions of public spaces in cities. It raises broader questions of civil society, such as youth activism, historical uses of public spaces by rightwing or racist groups, and the absence of leisure and closure of public spaces for people experiencing homelessness.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 26 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume brings together a diverse range of chapters that delve into the multifaceted aspects of leisure, activism, and the animation of urban environments. The authors present compelling research that explores the profound meaning and creative processes behind activist practices, contentious events of dissent, and the arts in everyday life. Positioned within the expanding realm of activist scholarship and social justice research, this collection specifically focuses on understanding and challenging the dynamics of public spaces within cities.

The contributions showcased herein range from overtly political endeavors, such as protest marches, to recreational activities like skateboarding and bicycling, which reshape cities through their contestations of space. Throughout the collection, the chapters raise broader questions about civil society, encompassing research on youth activism, historical uses of public spaces by right-wing or racist groups, and the absence of leisure and access to public spaces for individuals experiencing homelessness.

Certain chapters examine events, such as festivals, as sites of resistance and social change. In contrast, others center on grassroots neighborhood activism through arts, or mega-events are framed through protest campaigns against bids to host the Summer Olympic Games. A central thread that runs through the chapters is the exploration of whose voices are heard and whose remain unheard in the events of dissent within the city.

This book serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in understanding the complexities of leisure, activism, and urban environments. It offers insightful perspectives and innovative approaches to address the challenges and opportunities that arise in these dynamic spaces. By highlighting the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, the book contributes to the ongoing dialogue about social justice, equity, and the creation of inclusive and vibrant cities.

Weight: 449g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032358093