The Politics of Place: Urban Life, Social Diversity, and Social Cohesion: Placemaking and How Local Communities Transform Places

Abstract

The intersection between urban life, social diversity, and social cohesion is a longstanding concern in the five boroughs of New York City. Manhattan and Staten Island are the only boroughs where whites constitute a majority. Often referred to as “The Forgotten Borough” of NYC, Staten Island struggles with its persistent challenges in ensuring the full belonging and equity for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous & People of Color), immigrants, people living in economic insecurity, LGBTQ+ Individuals, and people with disabilities. Despite Staten Island’s long history of discrimination and exploitation of historically stigmatized populations, few studies have examined the relationship between residents’ heterogeneous identities in the borough’s neighborhoods and their sense of community. This descriptive study examines the relationship between attitudes and perceptions about disability, race, class, and politics, awareness of oppression, privilege, and sense of community among a sample of current and former Staten Island residents.

Presenters

Mayra Lopez Humphreys
Associate Professor, Social Work, The College of Staten Island, New York, United States

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Identity and Belonging

KEYWORDS

Diversity, Belonging, Equity, Placemaking, Advocacy, Community Development, Social Cohesion