Fem. Blog

87. Reimagining Green Spaces: Insights from the "Radical Picnic" Event          

*Radical Picnic (explanation below)                  #18.09.2023

Dear Friends of Feminist Park,

We recently hosted a thought-provoking event, the "Radical Picnic," where we delved into critical discussions and immersive experiences within Berlin's green spaces. This unique gathering, facilitated by the Feminist Park Collective and our dedicated partners, was a powerful exploration of how we can transform urban green spaces into safe, inclusive, and vibrant environments. Here, we share some of the remarkable insights that emerged from our various activities.

Picnic & Fish Bowl Discussion

Our day began with an open dialogue that centered on the theme of safety in public parks. Facilitated by the Feminist Park Collective, the "fish bowl" format allowed for dynamic and inclusive discussions. Participants explored what makes them feel safe and, more importantly, discussed alternative approaches to creating safety without resorting to hyper-surveillance. The results were inspiring, as diverse voices came together to emphasize the need to move away from excessive surveillance, whether by the state or fellow citizens, and toward a vision of unity and inclusivity. The consensus was clear: safety should be rooted in connectedness and solidarity.

Critical Mapping Workshop

Led by the Feminist Park Collective and Olya Chernyakova, the Critical Mapping Workshop was a deep dive into Berlin's green spaces through a feminist lens. During this workshop, we identified traces of injustice, voiced support for marginalized groups, and questioned the existing infrastructures in our parks. The results were enlightening. We discovered that our parks could benefit from more inclusive infrastructure, especially for individuals with different physical needs. For example, we recognized the importance of creating accessible facilities for visually impaired individuals. This workshop laid the foundation for reimagining our green spaces as truly inclusive and equitable environments.

Performative Practice: "Visual Deprivation"

Maria Patsyuk led us through a remarkable experiential practice known as "Visual Deprivation." By blindfolding participants, we aimed to enhance embodied perception and inclusivity, particularly for marginalized groups. The results were eye-opening, as we began to identify safe and unsafe spaces within Mauerpark through this sensory experience. This practice emphasized the significance of considering different perspectives when designing our urban spaces.

Card Game by Think SI3

In this engaging activity moderated by Think SI3, participants assumed various roles and increased their empathy for people from diverse backgrounds and identities who use green urban infrastructure. We discussed how the future renovation plans of Mauerpark, such as closing the grill area, might impact different communities and cultures. This highlighted the urgent need for the city to provide alternative solutions to ensure the park remains a vibrant and inclusive space.

Ambient Music Performance

The Ambient Music Performance, brought to us by Artis Berlin resident Auratyk, added a powerful audio-visual dimension to our event. It created a captivating atmosphere that allowed us to connect deeply with nature through the sensory impact of sound and visuals. Auratyk's performance was a reminder of how art can inspire and transform our relationship with the environment.

These insights are just the beginning of our journey to transform Berlin's green spaces into truly feminist, inclusive, and safe environments. We are committed to continuing these conversations and working collaboratively with the city and our community to create positive change.

Stay tuned for more updates and future events. Together, we can reimagine our green spaces for a brighter and more inclusive future.


With solidarity and determination,

The Feminist Park Collective


Stay Connected:

Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Join us in reshaping our green spaces!



* Why are we calling the "Radical" picnic?

In our vision for a truly inclusive and feminist urban landscape, we conceived the notion of a 24-hour workshop, a practice that aimed to reclaim two spaces from which women and **FLINTA individuals have historically been excluded: the temporal realm of the night and the physical realm of green spaces. This endeavor was designed to offer a platform for various discussions, activities, interventions, and arts, all engaging with the spaces and challenging the existing norms.

Regrettably, the city rejected this proposal, deeming our feminist vision too "radical" solely because it was boldly expressed in the name "feminist park." Rather than being disheartened, we decided to embrace the term "radical" and incorporate it into a friendly picnic. This event was crafted to explore urban green spaces through the lens of feminism and inclusivity.

Criticism also arose, asserting that our initiative was exclusionary towards children and the elderly, despite our efforts to provide child-care facilities and diverse activities aimed at inviting the elderly. In response, we are actively engaging in dialogues with the city, emphasizing that by centering the experiences of women and FLINTA individuals and employing an intersectional feminist lens in conceptualizing green spaces, we are ultimately striving for a city that benefits everyone.

As Audre Lorde once profoundly stated, "I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own. And I am not free as long as one person of Color remains chained. Nor is anyone of you." This underscores the essence of our mission - true freedom and inclusivity can only be achieved when every individual, regardless of gender or background, has an equal and empowered place within our urban landscapes.

** Intersectional feminism recognizes that individuals experience a complex interplay of social identities and structures, and that no single aspect of a person's identity can be understood in isolation. FLINTA, which stands for women, girls, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans, and asexual individuals, is an acronym used to represent a broad spectrum of gender identities and experiences. Let's delve into how intersectional feminism interconnects with various aspects of identity like gender, sexuality, migration background.

88. *Why are we calling the "Radical" picnic?                                  #17.09.2023

*Radical Picnic (explanation below)

In our vision for a truly inclusive and feminist urban landscape, we conceived the notion of a 24-hour workshop, a practice that aimed to reclaim two spaces from which women and **FLINTA individuals have historically been excluded: the temporal realm of the night and the physical realm of green spaces. This endeavor was designed to offer a platform for various discussions, activities, interventions, and arts, all engaging with the spaces and challenging the existing norms.

Regrettably, the city rejected this proposal, deeming our feminist vision too "radical" solely because it was boldly expressed in the name "feminist park." Rather than being disheartened, we decided to embrace the term "radical" and incorporate it into a friendly picnic. This event was crafted to explore urban green spaces through the lens of feminism and inclusivity.

Criticism also arose, asserting that our initiative was exclusionary towards children and the elderly, despite our efforts to provide child-care facilities and diverse activities aimed at inviting the elderly. In response, we are actively engaging in dialogues with the city, emphasizing that by centering the experiences of women and FLINTA individuals and employing an intersectional feminist lens in conceptualizing green spaces, we are ultimately striving for a city that benefits everyone.

As Audre Lorde once profoundly stated, "I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own. And I am not free as long as one person of Color remains chained. Nor is anyone of you." This underscores the essence of our mission - true freedom and inclusivity can only be achieved when every individual, regardless of gender or background, has an equal and empowered place within our urban landscapes.

89. "RADICAL* PICNIC: REIMAGINING MAUERPARK AS A FEMINIST SAFE(er) (GREEN)SPACE"                                   

#15.09.2023 *Radical Picnic (explanation below)

In the heart of Berlin, a vibrant and revolutionary event is set to take place, challenging the conventional norms of urban green spaces. The Feminist Park Collective, in collaboration with Reimagine Your City, invites you to a transformative experience at the Radical Picnic in Mauerpark. This event is not just a picnic; it's a statement, a discussion, and a vision for the future of inclusive and safe urban spaces.

Exploring Safety Without Hyper-Surveillance:

One of the central themes of the Radical Picnic is the exploration of safety without the intrusion of hyper-surveillance. In a world where surveillance often invades our privacy in the name of safety, this event asks a profound question: What and who truly make us feel safe in public spaces? And how can centering Women\Flinta experiences in the planning, design and exploration of green urgan space yield answers to this questions?

Program Highlights:

The Radical Picnic offers a diverse and engaging program designed to stimulate both thought and action:


Imagining a Feminist Safe Space:

The Radical Picnic aims to transform Mauerpark into a playground for the imagination, where the concept of a feminist safe space is explored. It offers a glimpse into possible scenarios of how future green spaces can be designed to cater to the diverse needs of Berlin's communities, including FLINTA, Queer individuals, BIPoC, and allies.

Join the Movement:

This groundbreaking event calls upon everyone who believes in the power of inclusive and safe public spaces to come together, share ideas, and be part of a movement that challenges the status quo. Together, we can pave the way for a future where every individual feels safe, valued, and empowered in our urban environments.

Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a picnic that's more than just food; it's a feast of ideas, inspiration, and collective action. Save the date and be ready to reimagine Mauerpark as a feminist safe space at the Radical Picnic.

For more information and updates, follow Feminist Park Collective and Reimagine Your City on Instagram @feministparkcollective and @reimagineyourcity.

Let's come together and make a difference in the way we view and design our urban green spaces. We'll see you at the Radical Picnic!

Link to the event on Instagram


* Why are we calling the "Radical" picnic?

In our vision for a truly inclusive and feminist urban landscape, we conceived the notion of a 24-hour workshop, a practice that aimed to reclaim two spaces from which women and **FLINTA individuals have historically been excluded: the temporal realm of the night and the physical realm of green spaces. This endeavor was designed to offer a platform for various discussions, activities, interventions, and arts, all engaging with the spaces and challenging the existing norms.

Regrettably, the city rejected this proposal, deeming our feminist vision too "radical" solely because it was boldly expressed in the name "feminist park." Rather than being disheartened, we decided to embrace the term "radical" and incorporate it into a friendly picnic. This event was crafted to explore urban green spaces through the lens of feminism and inclusivity.

Criticism also arose, asserting that our initiative was exclusionary towards children and the elderly, despite our efforts to provide child-care facilities and diverse activities aimed at inviting the elderly. In response, we are actively engaging in dialogues with the city, emphasizing that by centering the experiences of women and FLINTA individuals and employing an intersectional feminist lens in conceptualizing green spaces, we are ultimately striving for a city that benefits everyone.

As Audre Lorde once profoundly stated, "I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own. And I am not free as long as one person of Color remains chained. Nor is anyone of you." This underscores the essence of our mission - true freedom and inclusivity can only be achieved when every individual, regardless of gender or background, has an equal and empowered place within our urban landscapes.

** Intersectional feminism recognizes that individuals experience a complex interplay of social identities and structures, and that no single aspect of a person's identity can be understood in isolation. FLINTA, which stands for women, girls, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans, and asexual individuals, is an acronym used to represent a broad spectrum of gender identities and experiences. Let's delve into how intersectional feminism interconnects with various aspects of identity like gender, sexuality, migration background.

90. Speech: Green Justice vs. Grey Highways: Our Battle for Inclusive Urban Spaces                                    #15.08.2023

The Feminist Park Collective, renowned for its commitment to environmental justice and inclusive urban spaces, has been invited to contribute a speech to an important demonstration. Our unique perspective, rooted in feminism and an acute awareness of intersecting social disparities, positions the project as compelling advocates in the quest for a more sustainable and equitable world. With the climate crisis looming large and crucial decisions about urban development at stake, their speech serves as a rallying call. It urges society to prioritize inclusivity, equity, and environmental care. By uniting with fellow activists, they emphasize the power of collective action to reclaim cities and lay the foundation for a just and sustainable future.


The A100 


In the face of an ever-intensifying climate crisis – where heatwaves scorch, oceans surge, and nature's delicate balance trembles – we refuse to remain silent. Our voices rise, demanding just and equal green spaces.


We are the Feminist Park Collective and as a collective we are advocating for Environmental Justice. Our mission is to amplify the voices of FLINTA, Queer Individuals, Black, Indigenous and People of color, collectively envisioning more inclusive urban green spaces. Through our research, we've uncovered the gendered and racialized nature of public spaces. Regrettably, vulnerable groups do not enjoy the same access to urban green areas as their white, heterosexual, able-bodied, middle-class and cisgender male counterparts. The city's fabric and infrastructure perpetuate social inequalities, including sexism, racism, class, age, and sexuality-based segregation. Sexualized violence, verbal assaults and hate crimes are still happening and we as a collective are fighting to imagine and create a safer public green space. While we are in this struggle against patriarchy in public space we need spaces like club OST, About Blank, Oxi and others. These spaces  give us freedom and courage to be ourselves, where like-minded individuals gather, where shared values are celebrated, and diverse identities and expressions are honored. The #A100 will take away these spaces for the courage that we need now the most. We don’t want this to happen. We are here to protect and preserve these valuable spaces.


As a collective we are outraged by the way the A100 project is framed as climate-friendly. The concept of sustainability is often presented as a central goal of German spatial policy, yet it often seems to be employed more as a catchphrase or a shield to any development happening. We refuse to accept the facade of environmental responsibility that has been woven into their rhetoric, when in reality, the A100 contributes to the degradation of our urban environment.


The true essence of sustainability requires a comprehensive commitment that goes beyond rhetoric. It should not be only about incorporating green spaces or renewable energy sources into projects. Rather, it involves addressing issues of social inequalities, environmental justice, community engagement, resource efficiency, and long-term viability. Sustainable urban development should be striking a balance between development and preservation. Many degrowth researchers have pointed out that we as a society should go beyond the pure idea of progress and efficiency and take care of each other and our environment. Our collective stands for these ideas. However, urban projects are often centered within the goals of a neoliberal state of society or within utopian ideas. These ideas cater to a world order that is not serving the needs of those who are on the margins. One of these is a case of car-centric development.


The patriarchy is cemented in our cities and car-centric development is a symbol of an unjust structural power distribution that we witness in our physical space. Marginalized groups are often excluded from the decision-making and their needs are not considered by car-centric development. Numerous studies show that caregivers primarily rely on public transport or walking for daily tasks, such as running errands, picking up children from kindergartens and schools, and accompanying older relatives to hospitals. Their route is more complex than a simple  home-to-work commute. Car-centric development disrupts neighborhood connections, fracturing the urban fabric, which renders the city less accessible for caregivers. Without caregivers, a capitalistic city cannot function; it relies on the invisible labor provided by marginalized groups. So, who truly benefits from a car-centric city? Car culture and patriarchy harm us all. Nevertheless, we do not merely demand a city convenient for women to perform care work. First, everyone must participate in this vital care work so they view the city as a space for collective care. Second, we demand that marginalized groups are actively included in the decision-making that shapes our city.


Our vision of a just city does not include the destruction of our urban environment for capitalistic gain. The city is not simply a source for extraction nor is it for the exploitation of people and the environment. The development of the A100 has already displaced more than 100 families and destroyed 12 hectares of urban green space. We stand against these actions and want to imagine a city that is centered around collective care, about both humans and non-humans.   


In these challenging times the government should not finance sealing nature and culture under another autobahn. It's time for a reckoning and a shift in priorities. It's time to demand that we invest in a future that is ecologically and ethically sound.


When the city will prioritize FLINTA, Queer individuals, Black, Indigenous and People of color, everyone benefits. Now, more than ever, we must take action. We must organize, mobilize, and demand change. We cannot afford to be passive observers in the face of such pressing issues. Let's reclaim our cities and truly build a just future. 


Hashtags: #EnvironmentalJustice #GreenUrbanSpaces #AntiA100 #FeministActivism #SustainableCities #UrbanInclusivity #ClimateJustice #CommunityEngagement #SocialEquality #CollectiveCare #A100 #feministpark #climatecrisis #sustainability #degrowth #carfree #carework #patriarchy #urbanplanning #justcity #reclaimourcities

91. The Feminist Park Summer School: A Space for Critical Thinking and Creative Problem-Solving #02.09.2023

The Feminist Park Summer School was a three-day event that brought together 25 participants from around the world to learn about the intersections of gender, race, class, and environmental justice. The program was designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills they need to create more equitable and sustainable green spaces.

Almost 40 people applied to the summer school, but we could only take 25. The group was carefully selected to represent important points of view which are underrepresented in the discourse on feminist parks. The participants included activists, scholars, artists, and community members from a variety of backgrounds.

The summer school was packed with activities, including lectures, workshops, film screenings, and field research. The participants learned about the history of feminist parks, the different ways in which green spaces can be gendered, raced, and classed, and the challenges and opportunities of creating more equitable and sustainable spaces.

The summer school also provided a space for participants to share their own experiences and ideas. They discussed their hopes and dreams for the future of green spaces, and they worked together to develop projects that would contribute to the creation of more just and sustainable cities.

The Feminist Park Summer School was a valuable opportunity for participants to learn, grow, and connect with others who are passionate about creating more equitable and sustainable green spaces. The program was a success, and I am confident that the participants will continue to be active in the fight for a more just and sustainable future.


92. Day 1: Rethinking Urban Green Spaces

The first day of the Feminist Park Summer School kicked off with a lecture and workshop on "Re-thinking urban green spaces: an intersectional feminist and anti-colonial lens" by the Feminist Park Collective. The workshop explored the ways in which urban green spaces are gendered, raced, and classed, and how these intersections can create barriers to access and enjoyment for marginalized groups.

The afternoon session focused on "Navigating the margins, imagining feminist utopias" with Nomaswazi Mthombeni. Mthombeni is a South African writer, activist, and educator who works on issues of gender, race, and environmental justice. She shared her own experiences of navigating the margins of society and explored the possibilities of creating feminist utopias in our cities.

The day ended with a film screening of "Feed the Green: Feminist Voices for the Earth". The film tells the stories of women and girls around the world who are working to protect and restore the environment.

93. Day 2: What Stories Can We Learn from an Intersectional Environmental Perspective?

The second day of the summer school began with a lecture and discussion by Tatu Hey on "What stories can we learn from an Intersectional Environmental perspective?" Hey is a researcher and activist who works on issues of environmental justice and climate change. She explored the ways in which we can use an intersectional lens to understand the environmental impacts of different groups of people.


The afternoon session was a performative practice led by Maria Patsyuk. Patsyuk is an artist and activist who works on issues of gender, race, and the body. The practice explored the ways in which our bodies are shaped by our experiences of the natural world.

The day ended with a field research workshop led by Olya Cherniakova. Cherniakova is a researcher and educator who works on issues of urban planning and environmental justice. The workshop gave participants the opportunity to learn about different methods of conducting field research in green spaces.


94. Day 3: Environmental Justice on Track?

The third and final day of the summer school began with a lecture and discussion by Husseim Stuck on "Environmental justice on track? Testing the environmental justice implications in Berlin "Green Tramway" project". Stuck is a researcher and activist who works on issues of environmental justice and transportation. He discussed the potential environmental justice implications of the Berlin "Green Tramway" project.

The afternoon session was dedicated to project development. Participants worked in groups to develop projects that would contribute to the creation of more equitable and sustainable green spaces

The day ended with a project presentation and round of reflection. Participants shared their ideas and experiences, and discussed the challenges and opportunities of creating feminist parks.

The Feminist Park Summer School was a valuable opportunity for participants to learn about the intersections of gender, race, class, and environmental justice. The program provided a space for critical thinking and creative problem-solving, and it helped to build a community of activists and scholars working to create more just and sustainable cities.

95. Summer School Speakers #2023.08.18 

🌿 Exploring Intersectional Eco-Feminism: Unveiling Anti-Racist Green Urban Spaces 🌿

With boundless excitement, we usher in a new chapter of our journey by introducing you to the remarkable experts who will grace our upcoming Summer School. These luminaries transcend conventional boundaries, sparking conversations that resonate far beyond the canvas of our minds.


🌱 Meet Maria Patsyuk: A Multidisciplinary Anti-War Artist from Moscow, Russia. Currently based in Europe for political reasons and pursuing her Masters at the Academy of Fine Arts Nuremberg. Maria's artistic practice is a testament to the intricate interrelations she explores, breaking away from ideologies to bloom in the in-betweens. Her work critically examines the dynamics between people, institutions, and non-humans within both physical and digital realms. With a focus on diverse and fluid positions, Maria probes the nuances of communication and individual vulnerabilities. Her diverse range of mediums, including performance, installation, digital art, and video, converge to explore bodily experiences and the reciprocal effects of art on bodies.

🌾 Meet Olga Cherniakova: An Architect, Landscape Architect, and Researcher based in Berlin, Germany. With a Master's in Architecture from St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, and diverse qualifications from Strelka Institute and TU Berlin, Olga expertly navigates the intersection of design, scenography, and urban intervention. Her workshop envisions a transformation of green urban environments through a "Feminist Park" lens. By examining Berlin's green spaces, Olga's workshop explores injustice reflections, supporting marginalized groups and non-human entities. It challenges existing spatial arrangements, seeking safer, equitable, and non-surveilled spaces, all while championing the feminist perspective.

🌿 Meet Tatu Hey: A Driving Force behind the BIPoC Black Earth Climate Justice Collective, based in Berlin. With decolonial, queer feminist, and ecological perspectives, Tatu advocates for an intersectional climate movement. Tatu's work amplifies awareness around environmental racism, emphasizing intersectionality within environmental justice. Alongside collective efforts, she enjoys cycling, tending to her balcony garden, and embracing the serene lakes of Berlin.

🌳 Husseim Stuck: A Researcher of Color committed to anti-colonial and environmental justice explorations of urban human-nature relations. Armed with a Master's from Humboldt University of Berlin and a degree in Environmental and Resource Management from Brandenburg University of Technology, Husseim's academic journey thrives on inclusivity. Through innovative digital mapping technology, his research dismantles societal and environmental connections, illuminating the impact of colonial histories on urban landscapes. Husseim's work champions green urban spaces that embrace the needs of all communities, challenging systemic inequalities and propelling transformative change.

As our Summer School draws near, we are eager to continue unraveling the tapestry of wisdom that each expert brings to the table. Stay tuned as we uncover more about these thought leaders who are poised to enrich our collective exploration. Your participation matters, and we look forward to welcoming you to this enlightening journey.


The Summer School is organized in collaboration with @feminist.translocalities and has received support from the German Foreign Office. 🌱🏙️

Meet our Conference Speakers! ⬇️

96. Summer School: "Environmental Justice: Can an intersectional eco-feminism lens yield answers into anti-racist green urban spaces practices?"                   #2023.08.12 

Under the Motto: 

🌿 Exploring Intersectional Eco-Feminism: Unveiling Anti-Racist Green Urban Spaces 🌿

At the Feminist Park Collective, we're thrilled to announce our upcoming Summer School that delves into the fascinating intersection of environmental justice, anti-racism, and eco-feminism. Titled "Environmental Justice: Can an intersectional eco-feminism lens yield answers into anti-racist green urban spaces practices?", this transformative event seeks to illuminate the stories, struggles, and triumphs within urban green spaces, showcasing the power of intersectional perspectives.

Mapping Inequalities and Empowerment

Climate change and anti-racism are crucial issues shaping our world today and also our green urban spaces. Through this Summer School, we aim to map with the participants the inequalities that intertwine with these challenges, while also highlighting the places and practices of empowerment within urban green spaces. Our focus will be on revealing narratives of environmental care from diverse standpoints: those of migrants, refugees, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPoC), and the queer community. In the vibrant city of Berlin, these communities have become catalysts for resistance against discrimination, creating resilient eco-feminist practices that pave the way for a more just and inclusive future.

Unveiling Eco-Feminist Practices

Centered around eco-feminist practices and their connection to decolonial research, the Summer School will encompass an array of enriching activities. From engaging seminars and hands-on workshops to dynamic public discussions, participants will have the unique opportunity to interact with activists and scholars who critically examine our urban environments.

Join the Movement

We cordially invite researchers, citizens, and anyone passionate about reshaping urban spaces to be a part of this transformative experience. The Summer School is open to all, regardless of expertise or background, and we wholeheartedly embrace and value every individual's unique experiences. Participation is entirely free of charge, fostering an environment of inclusive learning.

Event Details

📅 Date: August 18th-20th, 2023

⏰ Time: 13:00 - 19:00 (CET)

📍 Location: @floatinguniversity

🌐 Working Language: English

This Summer School is organized in collaboration with @feminist.translocalities and has received support from the German Foreign Office.

To join us in this exploration of intersectional eco-feminism, and to be a part of the movement toward anti-racist green urban spaces, please find the application form in here. The deadline for applications is August 14th, 23:59 (CET). Your unique perspective and presence will contribute to the collective journey toward a more equitable world, one where the vibrant green spaces of our cities truly belong to all.

Let's (re)write the narrative of urban green spaces together! 🌱💚

97. A Transformative Symposium Experience: Unveiling Urban Insights through the Feminist Park Collective #2023.08.08

We are excited to share an enriching journey from our recent participation at the symposium, where the Feminist Park Collective took center stage. The event served as a dynamic platform for exploring and reshaping urban green spaces through an inclusive lens. Let's dive into the fascinating insights we gained during these three engaging days.

Engaging Conversations and Connections:

Our presence at the symposium sparked immense interest, resulting in around 100 thought-provoking conversations over the course of three days. The enthusiastic engagement demonstrated a collective hunger for reshaping urban spaces to become more inclusive, welcoming, and equitable for all individuals.

Mapping Experiences and Imaginations:

To facilitate deeper conversations, we introduced an interactive element that resonated remarkably with attendees. A picture of Tempelhofer Feld park adorned our stand, inviting participants to mark their experiences on the map. This activity opened a gateway to a wealth of perceptions—where people felt safe or unsafe, which areas were thoughtfully designed with human experiences in mind, and those that were not. The resulting conversations were nothing short of captivating, revealing a tapestry of diverse experiences that highlight the need for more inclusive urban planning and not only a gender sensitive design, but a radical anti-sexist one.

A Powerful Contrast:

Among the many captivating conversations, two stood out as particularly eye-opening. These were the stories of a cis-man and a cis-woman (who did not know each other), both preparing for the Berlin Marathon 2023 in the coming weeks and using the Tiergarten park in Mitte for training. Their experiences couldn't have been more contrasting. The cis-man moved freely during the day and at night, using the park as his training ground, while the cis-woman recounted feeling profoundly unsafe and fearful in the same space specially at night. This stark contrast in experiences shed a glaring light on the gendered nature of public spaces and the urgent need for transformation.

Conclusion:

Our participation at the symposium was an enlightening journey that showcased the power of collective dialogue and imagination in reshaping urban environments. The interactive map activity, coupled with compelling conversations, unveiled the intricate layers of urban experiences and the disparities that still persist. The tales of the marathon runners illuminated the pressing urgency for a radical anti-sexist urban planning and inclusive design. As we reflect on the event, we are fueled with even more determination to continue our mission of creating feminist, intersectional, queer, inclusive, and safe urban green spaces. Together, we can pave the way for cities that thrive on diversity, equality, and shared experiences.


98. "Collectively imagining the feminist park" Symposium invitation #2023.07.28 

We want to introduce the @feminist.park.berlin to you! It is indeed shocking that the physical and mental benefits arising from urban green spaces are gendered, meaning that women* have less access to these than men. Let's change that!

Feminist Park Collective will present a station (a kiosk) where participants of the symposium will be invited to share their opinions in creative ways on how we can imagine an inclusive green space. The collective created a survey, where they ask about preferences of build environment, social services and safety that forms the geographical imagination of inclusive green space.

Feminist Park Collective center voices of people that identify as FLINTA*, people with experience of migration, people from the LGBTQ+ community and BIPoC.


Source: https://www.instagram.com/p/CvALbKFMqpS/ 

Hashtags: #InclusiveUrbanSpaces #FeministParkCollective #Architektoniczki #EqualityInArchitecture #UrbanPlanning

#GreenUrbanSpaces #CollaborativeVentures #AntiSexistSpaces #EquitableFuture #SharedVisionUrbanSpaces #inclusiveurbanspaces #feministurbanplanning #feministarchitecture #genderequality

#socialjustice #sustainablecities #greenspaces #publicspaces #collaboration #changemakers


99. Architektonski and the feminist park                           #04.07.2023

Pioneering Equality: Joining Forces for Inclusive Urban Spaces


Welcome to a dynamic exploration of the Feminist Park Collective and Architektoniczki—two visionary initiatives that are reshaping the landscape of urban planning and architecture. In a recent heartwarming encounter, these two projects united to celebrate shared visions and ignite discussions that hold the potential to reshape the world of architecture, urban planning, and green spaces.


The Feminist Park Collective: A Transformative Journey

The Feminist Park Collective stands at the forefront of redefining urban green spaces with an anti-sexist perspective. Their research into green urban spaces aims to dismantle the gendered disparities that exist within these environments. With a mission to create inclusive and empowering spaces, the collective envisions an anti-sexist green urban landscape that echoes through neighborhoods, districts, cities, and beyond. The collective's determination to challenge the status quo and infuse equality into green spaces serves as a beacon of hope for a more inclusive future.


Architektoniczki: Building Equal Spaces Through Collaboration

In Poland, Architektoniczki emerges as a trailblazing cooperative of feminist architecture and urban planning. Comprising specialists dedicated to creating equal spaces, their innovative approach embraces subjectivity, emotionality, and reflectiveness, challenging established paradigms. Through the introduction of "equal rights space," Architektoniczki has transformed Poland's architectural vocabulary. Their manifesto's call for change emphasizes the end of architecture as a tool for imposing grand narratives and a commitment to fostering genuine discussion and dialogue.


Collaborative Ventures: Shaping a More Equitable Future

The recent encounter between the Feminist Park Collective and Architektoniczki marks the beginning of a promising partnership that envisions a world where architecture, urban planning, and green spaces prioritize inclusivity and equality. Collaborative ventures on research, public awareness campaigns, community engagement workshops, and inclusive design guidelines promise to amplify their shared message. By merging their strengths, these initiatives strive to broaden their impact, inspiring change not only in their respective fields but in the wider urban landscape.


A Shared Vision for Equitable Urban Spaces

Central to both projects is a shared vision that transcends boundaries, aiming for nothing less than global transformation. The Feminist Park Collective's commitment to anti-sexist green urban spaces complements Architektoniczki's groundbreaking concept of equal rights space. Together, they ignite a movement that reaches beyond physical boundaries to redefine how we experience and shape our urban environments.


Conclusion:

The Feminist Park Collective and Architektoniczki unite to remind us that collective action drives meaningful change. Their collaboration holds the potential to foster inclusive urban planning, architecture, and green spaces that truly belong to all. As we witness their united endeavors, we are inspired to envision a future where cities resonate with diversity, equality, and shared experiences. Together, let us champion equitable urban spaces that extend from local neighborhoods to global landscapes, shaping a world where every individual's voice and experience matter.


100. Heterotopia ilmpark,             Bauhaus University Weimar symposium #2023.06.10

(Re)Thinking Green Urban Spaces: An (Eco)Feminist and Anti-Colonial urban lens

In a world grappling with urgent environmental challenges, it is essential to reframe our understanding of the environment and explore the transformative potential of technology, design, and networking. The Heterotopia Ilmpark symposium, known for its multidisciplinary approach, serves as a meeting ground for artistic and scientific minds to exchange ideas on these crucial topics. This year, the symposium has taken an exciting step towards inclusivity by inviting a groundbreaking initiative known as "The Feminist Park of Berlin" to contribute to the discussions with the presentation titled "(Re)Thinking Green Urban Spaces: An (Eco)Feminist and Anti-Colonial Urban Lens." Let us delve into the symposium's goals and understand the significance of this project's presence.

A Shifting Paradigm: The symposium recognizes that the climate crisis not only demands environmental action but also necessitates a fundamental shift in societal attitudes and power dynamics. The symposium seeks to explore these dimensions, aligning itself with the New European Bauhaus initiative while embracing the concept of heterotopia.

"The Feminist Park of Berlin" Project: The inclusion of "The Feminist Park of Berlin" project at the symposium is a testament to the organizers' commitment to diversity and equality. This groundbreaking project challenges traditional notions of public spaces, aiming to create an inclusive urban environment that centers the experiences and perspectives of women and marginalized communities. By inviting this project, the symposium recognizes the vital role of feminist principles in redefining our relationship with the environment.

The Feminist Park's Unique Contribution: "The Feminist Park of Berlin" project brings a fresh perspective to the symposium, enriching the discussions with its innovative approach. Their presentation, "(Re)Thinking Green Urban Spaces: An (Eco)Feminist and Anti-Colonial Urban Lens," delves into the intersections these two topics, offering an alternative lens to understand and transform urban spaces. By addressing issues such as gender equity, social justice, and inclusivity, the project broadens the understanding of environmental aesthetics and the concept of heterotopia. It highlights the complexities of coexistence and the interconnectedness of social and environmental systems.

A Powerful Setting: The Park an der Ilm in Weimar: The symposium gains even more significance as it takes place in the beautiful and historically rich setting of the Park an der Ilm in Weimar. This UNESCO World Heritage Site exemplifies the design principles of Classical Weimar and has deep connections to the ecological design approaches of the State Bauhaus. The park's relevance extends beyond its historical significance, as it currently serves as a focal point for both climate-related and social transformations.

A Collaborative Exploration: With "The Feminist Park of Berlin" project and their presentation "(Re)Thinking Green Urban Spaces: An (Eco)Feminist and Anti-Colonial Urban Lens" as participants, the symposium offers a platform for practical and participatory exploration of a new environmental aesthetic. By connecting artistic and design-based frameworks to ongoing processes, the discussions aim to generate innovative ideas that challenge the status quo and promote sustainability and equality.

Conclusion: The Heterotopia Ilmpark Symposium was not only a meeting of minds but also a catalyst for change. By inviting the pioneering "The Feminist Park of Berlin" project and the thought-provoking presentation, "(Re)Thinking Green Urban Spaces: An (Eco)Feminist and Anti-Colonial Urban Lens," the symposium embraces the importance of feminist principles and anti-colonial perspectives in reshaping our understanding of the environment and urban green space. Together, the participants and projects at the symposium strived to create a future where equality, sustainability, and inclusivity are at the forefront of environmental discourse. The stage is set for profound discussions, collaborative exploration, and the emergence of new environmental aesthetics that reflect the diversity and complexities of our world.