ABSTRACT
Some fifty years ago C. Wright Mills argued that perhaps the most troubling consequence of the homogenization of US life was a shrinkage of space for democratic dialogue (Aronowitz, 2003). Without a space for difference of opinions, thoughts, or dreams, democratic culture only recedes. Without some sort of local community space where citizens can act together, there is little room for critical consideration of community issues. Without a space where people can share common interests, pleasures, and concerns, it is difficult to imagine citizens engaging in political participation (Dewey, 1954). Democratic participation must be considered within a framework of organizing, playing, and supporting spaces for social, cultural, and political engagement (Shepard, 2009, in press). Only when citizens are mobilized can communities create change; only when citizens are organized can we consider ourselves living democratically. Access to space for dialog is fundamental for democracy to thrive.
