An organisation of: Free 54, Growfunding, BRAL, Zinneke, Ancienne Belgique, Toestand Vzw, Frontal Soundsystem, Dakh, Stadskanker, Entree, Cassonade, Octopusssy & 54 sound.
 
Can there still be public space? During a political debate following the elections, we create a new dynamic: young people creatively pose their questions to politicians during artistic interventions about public space

Terraces have taken over squares and sidewalks. Public benches are scarcer than ever and drinking alcohol has become illegal, at least on the streets. With these measures, the underprivileged are seen as problems in the urban landscape. Those who can spend money get a privileged place in what was once considered public space.
Brussels is changing in a non-inclusive way: the city is being shaped according to commercial logic, often driven by non-local investors, who are slowly but surely displacing people who want to use the city to live. Yet this informal public space has significant informal value. It strengthens, connects, and provides breathing room. But why is it systematically taken over? Even people with less purchasing power, and thus the youth, have a right to the city. Public space seems to be becoming less and less public.
The Place Sainte-Catherine is a symbol of how the expansion of terraces has changed the informal character of public space and how policies have made many people feel unwelcome. Free 54 has been fighting a broader battle for justice in our urban space for 10 years. With the upcoming elections, Free 54 is once again entering the fray. They are joining forces with BRAL, Zinneke, Ancienne Belgique, Toestand Vzw, Frontal Soundsystem, Dakh, Stadskanker, Entree, Cassonade & Octopusssy.

This summer, the campaign will culminate in a crucial debate between young people and politicians on Sunday, September 8 at AB. They are inviting the main political parties to address the theme and ask for their response. Do you also want a truly free public space again? Support us and come to Ancienne Belgique on Sunday, September 8 from 4 pm! Your support will be used for organizing the debate, scenography, and artistic framework. This way, we give stigmatized groups who need public space the most the chance to claim their place.