Park segregation

Date and country of first publication

2007
United States

Definition

Park segregation refers to the division of public parks based on race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. This was a common practice in the United States during the period of segregation laws, which prohibited people of different races from using the same facilities.

In many cities, parks were designated as "whites-only" or "blacks-only" spaces, with separate facilities such as restrooms, drinking fountains, and seating areas. This segregation was a way to enforce and perpetuate racial discrimination and inequality.

Today, park segregation is illegal under civil rights laws, and public parks are considered open to everyone regardless of race or background. However, there may still be instances of segregation based on socioeconomic factors, such as the availability of amenities in wealthier neighborhoods compared to those in lower-income areas.

Efforts are being made to ensure that public parks are accessible and inclusive to all members of the community, regardless of their background. This includes creating programs and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusivity in park spaces, as well as addressing any disparities in park resources and amenities.

Related segregation forms

Park segregation is frequently discussed in the literature with the following segregation forms:

jim crow segregation

For the complete network of associated segregation forms, see: 

clusters https://tinyurl.com/2d8wg5n3 

year of publication https://tinyurl.com/2235lkhw 

betweenness centrality https://tinyurl.com/223udk5r 

disciplines where segregation forms first appeared https://tinyurl.com/244d8unz 

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Park segregation appears in the following literature

O'Brien W. (2007). The strange career of a Florida State Park: Uncovering a Jim Crow past. Historical Geography, 35(), 160-184. https://doi.org/

O'Brien W.E. (2012). State parks and Jim crow in the decade before brown V. board of education. Geographical Review, 102(2), 166-179. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1931-0846.2012.00141.x

Retzlaff R. (2021). Desegregation of City Parks and the Civil Rights Movement: The Case of Oak Park in Montgomery, Alabama. Journal of Urban History, 47(4), 715-752. SAGE Publications Inc..https://doi.org/10.1177/0096144219877636