Laurie Jo Reynolds

Amid the neoliberal transformation of Chicago--which extends capitalist market domination into every sphere, and substitutes competition and consumption for solidarity and social justice--the editors felt an urgent need to reclaim, rebuild, and redefine public space. The publication documents a period of cultural activism in Chicago stretching from 2000 to 2005, and covers various projects and organizations that responded to neoliberal restructuring. Topics include collective infrastructures, protest experiments, gentrification, public housing, and urban planning. (Adapted from introduction.)

Founded in 2005, AREA Chicago supports the work of people and organizations building a socially just city. AREA actively gathers, produces, and shares knowledge about local culture and politics. Its newspaper, website, and events create relationships and sustain community through art, research, education, and activism.