Beach segregation

Date and country of first publication^[1][edit | edit source]

2017
South Africa

Definition[edit | edit source]

Beach segregation refers to the practice of maintaining separate facilities, services, and areas at the beach based on race, ethnicity, or other discriminatory factors. It was prevalent during the period of racial segregation in many parts of the world, particularly in the United States before the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s.

In the United States, beach segregation was primarily enforced through the system of Jim Crow laws, which mandated separate facilities for Black and White individuals. These laws aimed to reinforce racial hierarchies and maintain racial segregation in all aspects of life, including public spaces like beaches.

As a result, many beaches were racially segregated with designated areas for Black beachgoers, often with inferior facilities compared to those available to White beachgoers. These segregated areas were usually overcrowded, had limited amenities, and were often located in less desirable parts of the beach.

Beach segregation was a form of institutionalized discrimination that perpetuated racial disparities and contributed to the unequal treatment and opportunities available to different racial groups. It was eventually challenged and dismantled as part of the Civil Rights Movement, leading to desegregation of public spaces, including beaches.

Today, beach segregation is widely recognized as a violation of human rights and equality. Laws and regulations now ensure that public beaches are open to everyone regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background, promoting inclusivity and equal access to all individuals.

Related segregation forms[edit | edit source]

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

racial segregation

This visualization is based on the study The Multidisciplinary Landscape of Segregation Research.

For the complete network of interrelated segregation forms, please refer to:

First year of publication

Louvain clusters

Betweenness centrality

Disciplines in which segregation forms first emerged (Scopus database).

References[edit | edit source]

Notes[edit | edit source]

↑ Date and country of first publication as informed by the Scopus database (December 2023).

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 ©.