<h1>Lidová škola urbanismu - pozvánka na první ročník</h1> <h1>Popular School of Urbanism - Invitation to the First Year</h1>

1. Lecture: "New Socio-Spatial Formations"
March 25, 2013, at 18:00 in the Jaroslav Fragner Gallery (Betlémské náměstí 169/5a, Prague 1)
Lecturer: Doc. RNDr. Luděk Sýkora, Ph.D., Social Geographer
Abstract: The lecture will focus on two processes of transformation of the socio-spatial organization of cities in the post-communist period. It will first address the process of suburbanization and the shaping of urban regions through the integration of residential areas, workplaces, services, and entertainment connecting the city center with its growing suburban zone. In the second part, it will discuss issues of residential segregation, especially the formation of closed and parallel worlds of social groups.
 
2. Lecture: "Who Rules the City? The Influence of Global Neoliberal Economy on Urban Decision-Making"
April 29, 2013, at 18:00 in the Jaroslav Fragner Gallery (Betlémské náměstí 169/5a, Prague 1)
Lecturer: RNDr. Michaela Pixová, Ph.D., Social Geographer
Abstract: Contemporary urban development is no longer determined by politicians but primarily by major economic players who use urbanism as a tool for profit-making. Cities are not planned with regard to sustainable development and the needs of their inhabitants but rather with regard to the needs of investors and developers. This development has far-reaching impacts on various disadvantaged population groups, particularly in the form of so-called gentrification, which rejuvenates urban neighborhoods through the influx of investments and more affluent residents. The lecture will focus particularly on the influence of neoliberal economy and gentrification on urban environments and their inhabitants.
 
3. Lecture with a panel discussion on the topic "Municipal Housing and Poverty - A Public Matter"
June 3, 2013, at 18:00 in the Jaroslav Fragner Gallery (Betlémské náměstí 169/5a, Prague 1)
Discussants: Dipl. Ing. Jakob Hurrle, Urban Planner; RNDr. Roman Matoušek, Ph.D., Mgr. Petr Kučera, Social Geographers
Abstract: - Roma and poverty in Czech cities, - The emergence of socially excluded localities – economy, politics, culture, - Municipal self-government, municipal housing and (non)support for the poor, - Consequences and risks of social exclusion for society and individuals.
 
4. Lecture "Process of Negotiation and Public Opinion"
The lecture will take place in June at the Jaroslav Fragner Gallery (Betlémské náměstí 169/5a, Prague 1)
The exact date will be specified after agreement with the lecturer.
Lecturer: Prof. Zoran Stiperski, Social Geographer from the University of Zagreb
Abstract will be provided later.
 
Walk: "Visit to the Vietnamese Commercial and Cultural Center Sapa"
September 21, 2013, at 15:00 - meeting at Kačerov station, at bus stop No. 113
Guide: Mgr. Tereza Kušniráková, member of the GEOMIGRACE research center at Charles University, People in Need
Abstract: According to some opinions, Sapa is a dangerous hub for Vietnamese drug dealers and gamblers that threatens the Czech state. For others, it is a place for exotic shopping and dining. For a third group, it is the main center of livelihood and cultural and social activity in the country, its inhabitants not regarded as equal citizens. Together with the expert on Vietnamese migration to the Czech Republic, Tereza Kušniráková, we will explore both well-known and lesser-known corners of Vietnamese Sapa and gain insight into the world of Vietnamese-descended residents of Prague, shrouded in many stereotypes but primarily a great deal of ignorance. Among other things, we will learn about the role Sapa plays in the integration process of Vietnamese people into Czech society and how Vietnamese people perceive us Czechs.
 
5. Lecture "The Characters of Prague"
September 30, 2013, at 18:00 in the Jaroslav Fragner Gallery (Betlémské náměstí 169/5a, Prague 1)
Lecturer: Ing. arch. Tomáš Vích, Architect
Abstract: Prague is composed of various parts of the city, each with its specific character of urban structure of buildings, way of life, and composition of local residents creating local context and genius loci. These include built environments - organically grown, block, monoblock, villa, housing estate, and satellite. The lecture aims to compare the pros and cons of typical neighborhoods and outline ways to strengthen their character that would preserve the pros and eliminate the cons. Experiences from the audience will be discussed.
 
6. Lecture: "Transformation of Holešovice"
October 29, 2013, at 18:00 in the Jaroslav Fragner Gallery (Betlémské náměstí 169/5a, Prague 1)
Lecturer: Ing. arch. Jana Zdráhalová, Ph.D., Architect
Abstract: Over the past 20 years, a transformation of original industrial buildings into objects offering new functions has been taking place in Prague, often involving luxury housing or exceptional services. Similar transformations of historic parts of cities have been occurring in Western Europe since the 1970s. The contribution will outline the basic characteristics of these changes, how new construction fits into the original structure, and the significance attributed to new architecture.
 
7. Lecture with a panel discussion on the topic "City and Discourse"
November 25, 2013, at 18:00 in the Jaroslav Fragner Gallery (Betlémské náměstí 169/5a, Prague 1)
Lecturer: Mgr. Jan Šamánek, Sociologist
Abstract: How do the media and official documents speak about public space and homelessness in Prague, and in what contexts? What impact does this have on real social life in Prague and the possibilities of utilizing public space or decision-making about it? These are the main questions that the meeting on "city and discourse" will focus on. Through a discussion of text examples and their interactions, typical patterns of portrayal of homelessness in Prague will be identified during the lecture. These will then be discussed concerning the legitimization of specific policies addressing homelessness issues and the social problems that a particular way of portrayal and perception of homeless people may contribute to their emergence or deepening. A key topic in this respect will be the possibilities of utilizing and deciding about public space.

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