Places of Belonging

Reimagining Vancouver's Public Space for Inclusivity and Connection in the Latin American Community

"Lugares de Pertenencia/ Places of Belonging" was a placemaking event that aimed to convert a public plaza in Vancouver, Canada, into a dynamic space for cultural exchange and community connection for the spanish speaking Latin American community, funded by the City of Vancouver’s Placemaking grant.

About the event

“Places of Belonging” unfolded as a communal living room within a public space, featuring an art exhibition showcasing the creations of newcomer youth from past projects. Community members were also engaged in a creative process through an interactive art session, fostering personal expression and community building. Additionally, in a sensory mapping activity of the area, La Libélula invited participants to reflect on their migration and belonging stories as they related to the city, providing a unique perspective on the diverse journeys within the Latin American community in connection with their physical surroundings. Finally, the event concluded with traditional Latin American food that was shared among community members and passersby in the space.

Discovering creative approaches to reshape public spaces and foster community connections in urban environments, enhancing the built environment's cultural inclusivity.
Gaining insights into strategies that embrace diversity and create inclusive spaces for community members, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity.
Learning practical techniques that leverage art as a tool for community expression, empowerment, and connection, fostering collaboration and collective creativity.
Acquiring tools and insights to create environments that encourage social interaction, collaboration, and a sense of community belonging.