To map and approach issues related to how drug users use public space. To create tools and spaces for exchange of knowledge, reflection and social interaction.
How can people with different needs coexist in Oslo's urban space? In theory, we all have the same opportunities to use public space, but in practice this is not true. Drug users tend to use urban spaces more than many others, partly due to their need for buying, selling and consuming drugs. However, historically and still on an every day base, they are chased, discriminated against and not tolerated in our city center.
Embrace is an open-ended discussion and investigation on how Oslo can become a city that truly recognises the needs of different people. It touches and questions the boundaries of what is legal and illegal and looks at how we as designers, planners and authorities deal with some of the most vulnerable people in our society. It's not just about planning for the society we'd like to have, but also for the one that is here today.
How can we as designers, planners and architects facilitate inclusive solutions and tools for a coexistence of a wide range of people in public space and in our neighbourhoods?
We invited for several workshops, pop-up events, discussion groups and a movie screening in specific areas (Storgata and Urtehagen) that are effected by the presence of many drug users. All happenings were on street-level, free and open for everyone to join. They were bridge builders between "us" and "them", aiming to create moments of reflection, discussion and mutual learning in order to get a better understanding and trust between the different user groups of public space and for the needs of drug users.
We are now investigating the possibility of creating an own space for drug users. Like children need playgrounds in the city, drug users also have special needs that need to be addressed and taken care of.
