Should architecture address social justice?
This week left me wondering, should architecture be used as a tool to fight for social justice? The obvious answer is yes. Everything should be used as a tool, and architecture already affects people's lives every day, why can't it be used to help set everyone on a level playing field.
I don't think architecture alone can do this, however. This isn't a groundbreaking thought, but I think for a real change to happen, it has to happen on a political level. Social programs are going to help poverty more than architecture can. This is where smart planning comes into play. Better streets (trees, clean, maintained) will reduce crime levels and instill a sense of ownership by the surrounding citizens.... Smart planning can reduce food deserts and provide accessible jobs... Social programs that teach and provide learning opportunities will help low-income people rise out of poverty.... These are easy fixes that DO work but for some reason, studios like Rural Studio think giving away a house to poor people is going to fix poverty, when in reality the buildings often quickly fall into disrepair and neglect. It seems almost more of a publicity and marketing tool now, not unlike a reality TV show on HGTV.
Architects think differently about problems than other professions. It's time to start planning and designing and advocating for these strategies in these communities than can actually make a change.
I don't think architecture alone can do this, however. This isn't a groundbreaking thought, but I think for a real change to happen, it has to happen on a political level. Social programs are going to help poverty more than architecture can. This is where smart planning comes into play. Better streets (trees, clean, maintained) will reduce crime levels and instill a sense of ownership by the surrounding citizens.... Smart planning can reduce food deserts and provide accessible jobs... Social programs that teach and provide learning opportunities will help low-income people rise out of poverty.... These are easy fixes that DO work but for some reason, studios like Rural Studio think giving away a house to poor people is going to fix poverty, when in reality the buildings often quickly fall into disrepair and neglect. It seems almost more of a publicity and marketing tool now, not unlike a reality TV show on HGTV.
Architects think differently about problems than other professions. It's time to start planning and designing and advocating for these strategies in these communities than can actually make a change.
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