Making Spaces for Youth

Abstract This chapter examines the new politics and economics of urban space that emerged in London, Toronto, and Vancouver toward the end of the 20th century. Each city went through a varied period of neoliberal transition dominated by a move toward a social–cultural politics of creative cities, creative economic development, and securitization for and in response to youth. YouthSites emerged in this context as “a gathering force” for young people—a place for learning, connection, and sometimes refuge amid the shifting ground of urban life. Organizations in London (Paddington Arts), Toronto (Oasis Skateboard Factory), and Vancouver (South Asian Arts) have played roles in negotiating processes of gentrification and the discourses of creativity and fear in cities, while creating new spaces of youth belonging. The chapter concludes by addressing how these organizations have worked as spaces of refuge when relationships between youth and the state have changed and often become harder and leaner.