Metropolitan dynamics in the XXIst century: some elements to think about gender and sexuality in urban spaces

Abstract

Nowadays, urban contexts should be object of new reflections and re-conceptualizations. To think of “the right to the city” implies wondering not only about the kind of society and bonds to be built, but also about the ways to inhabit spaces –and bodies-.
Neoliberal policies, mainly those empowered by dictatorships since the 70´s up to the beginning of the XXIst Century over the territories of Latin American metropolis, have resulted in profound socio-spacial contrasts, being the accessibility to urban goods and services and their distribution on the territory uneven and unequal, the city having been reduced to merchandise. The metropolitan area of Tucumán –a metropolitan region in Argentina- is a clear example of these processes.
Dealing with urban problems from a gender perspective shall let us visualize the inequality within the frame of capitalist urbanization and the hetero-patriarchal dominant logic. Actually, this should be a matter of concern to be raised by State governments and public policies.
This article proposes elements to think of a new urbanism: an urban development towards more flexible territories, where people´s diversity, citizen´s participation and the development of local policies should be taken into consideration. Answers should be favourable to social –and spacial- justice, and sensitive to inclusion policies which guarantee “the right to the city” for everyone.