by OpenCity Projects

Photo: Michi McCloskey

Building cultural cues into public space design invites people in and gives them a sense of belonging by celebrating differences.

We can celebrate differences by providing a visible representation of diverse cultures. We see this in Toronto’s Kensington Market where the street art reflects cultural references and identities. At Parkdale Library, a regular calendar of after-school and evening programs showcase different cultures. At Scadding Court’s outdoor market, vendors sell a range of cultural foods, higlighted by colorful signage in different languages and international flags.

Celebrating diversity in public spaces can be done through art, performance, cultural celebrations, food and music. It is important that cultural displays be developed with the community, in an authentic way, to encourage participation and feelings of belonging and ownership.