I attended an event this afternoon at the Wosk Centre for Dialogue, hosted by SFU and the Aga Khan Foundation. Discussion about regeneration as opposed to gentrification in city neighbourhoods, after viewing a film about the various projects of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture throughout the muslim world. Interesting to see what inspired leadership with a long (read: generations-long) view of change can accomplish. Stimulating and relevant, comparing and contrasting these examples with approaches being considered and/or implemented in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver.
Questions revolved around revitalization, which triggered a reaction for me, since these communities are vital, lots going on, just not the most positive and productive kind of activity. I’m thinking a better description of what needs to happen might be called a ‘re-integration of vitality’, so that the energy that is expended in toxic economies, or hopeless and draining cycles of poverty can be redirected to productive and healthful action.
I must think about this a bit more.