From Urbanizations of Consumption to Neighborhoods of Production

The image of the city is its skyline.  Its worth is assessed by what it offers to inhabitants and visitors.  We no longer refer to ourselves as citizens, but consumers.  We accept what is given to us and complain about what is not.

In the spirit of participation, in the spirit of ownership, in the spirit of sustainability, the citizen must begin making his own fortune.  We sit back and wait for the city to grow, as if it is an organism.  We abdicate our ability to participate to policy makers and businessmen. 

How can we move from consuming to producing?  There is collective power in a group of citizens who wish to shape their city in their own way, to make it work better for them.  This is the critical realization – we don’t have to wait for others to make decisions for us.  We have the ability and responsibility to transform our environment.

The following is an excerpt from a Yelp review written by a visitor to the skate park mentioned in Teddy Cruz’s TED talk.  Participation and ownership of the city seem to have an inspiring effect on others:

“A note to first time visitors, no matter what your skill level, don't be a kook.  Watch how the park works, and respect the locals and other skaters there and you should be fine.  The park is maintained by volunteers, so pick up your trash and help sweep up once-in-a-while.”

http://www.yelp.com/biz/washington-street-skate-park-san-diego

 

http://www.sandiegomagazine.com/San-Diego-Magazine/September-2015/Secret-San-Diego/

 

http://hiddensandiego.net/washington-st-park.php

 

http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/washington-street-skate-park-san-diego