New Study: Urban Parks as Shared Spaces in Mixed Cities
Sikkuy-Aufoq for a Shared and Equal Society published a new study on the role of urban parks as shared spaces in Israel’s mixed cities, examining how these spaces can function as shared environments for both Arab and Jewish populations. The study focuses on their potential to foster healing and improve intercommunal relationships.
In recent years, efforts to narrow gaps in economic and employment opportunities have led to more shared public spaces and increased interactions between Jews and Arabs in academia and workplaces, and urban spaces. This presents both challenges and opportunities. Without intentional planning, these spaces may deepen alienation and hostility, potentially fueling violence between Jews and Arabs. However, if managed as truly shared spaces, they can foster mutual understanding, enhance the sense of belonging and security for both communities, and create a foundation for a society based on equality and respect.
The research findings are based on a mapping conducted in nine mixed cities in 2023. Some cities (Haifa, Ramle, Lod, Acre) have been mixed since before 1948, while others (Tel Aviv-Jaffa, Ma’alot-Tarshiha) became mixed through mergers. Nof HaGalil became mixed due to recent demographic changes, and Karmiel and Be’er Sheva, though predominantly Jewish, are increasingly mixed and serve nearby Arab communities. It offers a model, a tool for spatial analysis, and recommendations for advancing municipal mechanisms to manage these public spaces. These mechanisms aim to enhance the sense of safety, connection, and belonging for both Arabs and Jews, supporting the design of shared and equitable spaces.
Context of Mixed Cities in Israel
As of the end of 2019, approximately 190,000 Arab residents were living in Israel’s mixed cities, excluding Jerusalem, representing about 13% of the total population in these cities and 8% of Israel’s Arab citizens. In these cities, Arab-majority neighborhoods are typically situated in lower socio-economic clusters, while Jewish residents tend to live in wealthier areas.
In physical spaces like housing, education, and services, there is notable division between Arabs and Jews, both across cities and neighborhoods. This division results from deliberate planning policies that maintain segregation, as well as historical factors, cultural preservation, and security concerns. People often choose to live near those similar to themselves, which further deepens division, reinforced by socio-economic gaps.
Socio-Economic and Cultural Divides
Sikkuy’s study highlights the socio-economic gaps in public spaces in mixed cities. Parks in predominantly Arab neighborhoods are often underdeveloped and lack essential physical infrastructure, while Jewish-majority neighborhoods feature well-maintained parks with diverse recreational facilities. These gaps not only impact the physical infrastructure but also shape the social and cultural dynamics of these spaces, hindering interactions between Arab and Jewish residents.
Since most parks are located in Jewish-majority neighborhoods, interactions between Arabs and Jews occur on non-neutral ground. The reality of daily life in these mixed cities means that parks are frequently the sites of social division rather than integration. The study highlights that even if the separation is not immediately visible to outsiders, it is often very clear to local residents. This separation can manifest in subtle ways, such as language differences, the types of activities taking place in different areas of the park, or even the times at which certain communities use the park. In some cases, specific areas of a park may be predominantly used by one community, marginalizing the other and further entrenching social divisions. Arabic language, culture, history, and identity are almost entirely absent from these shared spaces, making it harder for Arab residents to have a sense of ownership and belonging or access these resources in a meaningful way.
Parks as a Tool for Social Healing
Urban parks provide spaces for children’s play, recreational activities, sports, rest, and social gatherings. They serve as green lungs and offer respite from city life. Beyond infrastructure, the study highlights parks as key sites for social cohesion. Experience from countries that have endured prolonged, violent conflicts—such as Northern Ireland or Chicago—shows that well-designed and well-managed urban parks can become empowering and healing spaces
According to the study, by integrating proper representation, inclusive management, and diverse activities, parks can transform into empowering shared spaces—places where children, adults, and youth can come together, share experiences, and feel part of an inclusive and equitable society.
Examples include:
- Jewish and Arab mothers exercising together after giving birth.
- Young people playing soccer or basketball together.
- Children enjoying bilingual performances and being exposed to the cultural richness of a diverse society.
“A successful park is one where every visitor feels a sense of belonging, safety, and representation. When a park reflects the diverse cultures of its users—through language, events, and design—it becomes a truly shared space, allowing everyone to feel welcome and at home.”
Recommendations for Urban Planning and Policy Change
Sikkouy Afouq’s study calls for a comprehensive reevaluation of urban planning in mixed cities. Despite budget constraints and socio-political complexities, approaching physical infrastructure, equitable and culturally sensitive planning can leverage parks as a meaningful arena for repairing relationships between Jews and Arabs. The study proposes a model based on three key dimensions:
Representation
- Bilingual signage that includes both Arabic and Hebrew names for the park.
- Incorporating cultural elements from both communities—through holidays, designs, and symbols.
Management
Most parks in mixed cities under study rely on emergency-based security responses, primarily through police or municipal enforcement teams. While police presence may reassure some Jewish residents, it can provoke insecurity and distrust among Arabs due to long-standing tensions with law enforcement. Given this, it’s essential that safe spaces and response mechanisms are developed in collaboration with the local community to address the needs of both groups, avoiding selective or unnecessary enforcement.
- Establishing a community-based security framework with representatives from both Jewish and Arab groups, working alongside municipal authorities and police.
- Developing maintenance and cleaning mechanisms that address the needs of all populations.
Shared Activities
In mixed cities, the development of minority cultures often relies on decisions by the majority regarding resource allocation. Supporting minority cultural life is essential for community flourishing and helps build a shared society. The review by Sikkuy found that while cultural events were held in three parks, they were primarily aimed at Hebrew-speaking Jewish audiences, conducted in Hebrew, and focused on Jewish holidays. Exceptions included events in Haifa, Tel Aviv-Jaffa, and Acre, which were more inclusive of the Arab community.
- Organizing events that cater to both groups, such as bilingual activities for children during winter holidays.
- Creating collaborative opportunities for communities, such as workshops, performances, or shared recreational programs.
How Can We Help?
Do you need support integrating these resources and issues into your philanthropic, communal, or Israel education work? Reach out for consultations, connections to experts, program support, training, or to plan your next event or mission. If you’ve used our resources, tell us about your experience!