Although Brasília has been extensively criticized for its lack of public life, brasilienses are redefining what it means to inhabit the city in ways albeit invisible to those who look at it from above. The strategies below intend to trigger reflections and conversations among designers, urban practitioners, government and community organizers in regards to the problematics and, especially, the possibilities the city and the citizens already offers.

There are many initiatives in Brasilia engaged with creating, transforming and appropriating public space. Most of the times, they are unsupported by the government and rely on collaboration and experience to get the work done. The guides below provide a framework on How To organize a street carnival, a community garden or a playstreet (among others), based on previous experiences. Feel free to download, share and, please, occupy public space! +

HOW TO USE

If you're a citizen and want to learn how to do-it-yourself

Download the guides and get inspired! Bring along family, friends and/or neighbords and occupy the city!

If you are a community or cultural organizer

You probably already know how much you are here, but it's worth taking a look and see what other groups have done and what are other tactics and strategies when it comes to promoting an event or organizing something for your neighborhood. You can also contribute and unwind how to do this or that if the information is missing or if you have a valuable tip.

If you are an urban professional or from the government

Architects and urban planners, both in government and academia, have systematically ignored the informal and self-organized dynamics of the city to inform land use plans and public policies. Although Brasília was planned almost 60 years ago, today it is experienced in a different way, and the new dynamics, uses and activities must also be recognized and included in urban planning. Use the strategies below to understand the new uses and activities that many spaces have not previously prescribed, but which demonstrate the interest and need of many residents. Use them to also understand what challenges groups face and how laws, policies and urban instruments could facilitate these processes.