Fostering Safe and Healthy Public Spaces for LGBTQIA+, Women, & Non-Conforming Genders

Introduction

• Urban planning has historically been influenced by privilege and power, often to the detriment of Black and Brown-majority neighborhoods.
• Marginalized communities often face structural racism and segregation due to discriminatory policies.

Gender in the Public Realm

• Public spaces have been historically designed by cisgender White men, neglecting the needs of marginalized genders.
• Women, gender non-conforming people, and LGBTQIA+ individuals face harassment and discrimination in public spaces.

Health & Well-being in Public Spaces

• 65% of women report experiencing street harassment, compared to 25% of men.
• Fear in public spaces affects how marginalized genders navigate them, impacting mental health and well-being.
• Women are more likely to use public transportation, facing challenges primarily due to poverty and lack of investment in their mobility needs.
• Safe multi-gendered and multi-generational spaces make women feel safer.

Empowering & Reflecting the Gender Spectrum in Public Spaces

1. Reimagining Lighting:

   • Improved lighting enhances visibility and safety.
   • Nighttime walking audits can help identify areas needing better lighting.

2. Removing Walls:

   • Reducing enclosed spaces increases perceived safety.
   • Example: London study showed women felt safer after walls were removed.

3. Create Cozy Corners:

   • Design spaces that provide privacy without sacrificing safety.
   • Example: Benches with planters for semi-secluded seating.

4. Provide Necessary Amenities:

   • Ensure availability of gender-inclusive restrooms to avoid conflicts.

5. Encourage Multi-use Spaces:

   • Mixed-use areas improve comfort and safety for marginalized genders.

6. Provide Inclusive Programming:

   • Offer family-friendly and gender-inclusive events to attract diverse groups.

7. Make Spaces Visually Inclusive:

   • Use art and designs representative of marginalized communities.
   • Example: Rainbow crosswalks decrease vehicle speeds and enhance pedestrian safety.

Supporting Gender Inclusivity

• Partner with Representative Organizations: Collaborate with groups representing LGBTQIA+ and women.
• Use LGBTQIA+ Data for Demographic Analyses: Include LGBTQIA+ data in development studies to identify vulnerabilities.
• Conduct Caucus Groups: Engage communities in design decisions to address their specific needs.
• Recruit Diverse Workforces: Ensure representation of women and LGBTQIA+ individuals in urban planning roles.

Definitions

• Gender Identity: One's self-concept of gender which may differ from the sex assigned at birth.
• Gender non-conforming: Identity outside the traditional gender binary.
• Transgender: Identity different from the gender assigned at birth.

About the Authors

• Abygail C. Mangar: Program Manager at NLC's Center for City Solutions.
• Lindsey Volz: Graduate intern at NLC's Center for City Solutions.