Urban regeneration: some feminist

thoughts Dr. Jackie Bourke

jackiembourke@gmail.com@JBPlaytime

It is beginning to be accepted that urban studies, by ignoring gender divisions,

is neglecting an important element of urban space.

Linda McDowell 1983

From a theoretical point of view, this is not exactly a new field however it still doesn’t seem to be a very mainstream discussion. The argument is underpinned by questioning the position of women in society.

“Thus the object of feminist research should not be

women alone, but rather the structure of social

relations that contributes to female oppression…”

McDowell 1983Bringing a feminist perspective to bare on an analysis of an urban space means understanding gender difference in a wider context and thinking about how society itself is organised.

“I would go to networking events that were full of guys

who had a way of talking I found exhausting…”

“You find yourself feeling you have nothing to say”.

Fiona Scott, Gort Scott Architects

Urbanism seems to be a field which is dominated by men. To be a lone voice can be very challenging and disempowering.

“We do not submit our projects for awards; instead, we direct effort at dissolving

professional boundaries… We challenge the overtime

culture…… which allows time for personal

development”.Irena Bauman, Bauman Lyons Architects

“We are changing cities by challenging the prevailing values”.

Irena Bauman, Bauman Lyons Architects

One of the questions is; how different would cities be if women had more influence?

Capoeira performance, Smithfield. Public Space in Dublin is generally quite safe for women, especially during the day.

The blue line from Heuston to Abbey Street marks the study site. Women walked along here and did a safety audit, identifying what worked, where problems had arisen and what was perceived as unsafe.

Women are often depicted in public space in one dimensional sexualized poses which signals to some men that sexual harassment is just a compliment. In fact many women describe sexually oriented comments and gestures as humiliating and frightening.

Frauen Werk Stadt A scheme built with women’s needs to the

in mind

Vienna, Austria

Buildings shut off from street

Image from: The City at Eye-Level

Buildings engaging with the street; primary school at streetImage from: The City at Eye-Level

A feminist city would: “transcend traditional definitions of home,

neighbourhood, city and workplace”.

“What would a non-sexist city be like”? Dolores Hayden 1980