Migration as a driver for solidarity-based urban development
Migrants often live in marginalized urban spaces, but at the same time contribute to urban dynamics. Migration influences urbanity and changes cities by introducing diversity and cultural variety. Urban planning and policy do not take sufficient account of these developments. Yet migration is an essential part of urban development and not an exceptional phenomenon. Cities exist through diversity, not equality, and diversity is a strength of urban spaces. However, while mobility is viewed positively in a global context, migration is often perceived negatively and the role of migration in urban development is often underestimated or negatively connoted. Children and grandchildren of migrants develop hybrid identities and reshape urban spaces, which is why their perspectives will be brought to the fore in this event.
The event aims to shed light on the role of migration in urban practice and urban development. It will highlight the importance of diversity in urban planning and discuss how migration can serve as a driver for solidary and sustainable urban development.
Program:
10:00 – 10:30 a.m.: Arrival and registration
Reception of the participants with welcome coffee.
10:30 – 11:00 a.m.: Opening and input by moderator
11:00 – 12:00: Panel – Remembrance, participation and the future
Migration shapes our cities and holds enormous potential for solidary and sustainable urban development. This panel will highlight concrete approaches and tools that create opportunities for migrants to participate and thus promote participation in urban practice. Using inspiring models of success such as shared spaces, the panel will show how such places are essential as platforms for exchange and community action to enable real participation for all city dwellers. It is also important to create spaces and access points where migrants can tell their stories and contribute to the collective memory of the city. It is about strategies and practical approaches that enable their formative experiences to be anchored in the urban landscape and cultural memory. An exchange that connects perspectives and provides valuable impulses for participatory urban design.
12:00 – 13:00: lunch break
13:00 – 14:45: Two parallel workshops
Workshop 1: Decolonial initiatives in urban spaces – migrant self-organization as a motor for justice
In this workshop, we will explore the role of migrant self-organizations in decolonizing urban spaces. Through inspiring projects and initiatives, participants will learn how these groups challenge existing power structures and develop alternative narratives. We will discuss the challenges faced by these initiatives and develop strategies to promote solidarity and collaboration. Practical exercises will enable participants to develop their own approaches to decolonizing their urban contexts. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the importance of migrant self-organizations in creating just and inclusive cities.
Workshop 2: Antiracism in urban spaces – strategies for active participation
In this interactive workshop, we will look at the mechanisms of racism in urban areas and work together to develop effective strategies for active anti-racist engagement. Participants will reflect on their own experiences and learn how they can counteract discrimination in everyday life. Through group work and practical exercises, a critical awareness of their own position is promoted and concrete options for action are developed to create a fairer and more inclusive urban society.
14:45 – 15:00: Take a short break and get ready to go
15:30 – 18:00: City tour of migrant places in Berlin – with Ezgi Özcan
City tour starts in front of the Sommerbad Kreuzberg (Prinzenbad)