Introduction

This introduction is divided into three main parts. The first establishes the theoretical framework, considering theories of trauma, violence, decolonial and communitarian feminism, and urban geography. This section also introduces arguments regarding how collectives use artistic expressions that reappropriate the historical discourse while denouncing violations of human rights. The second part is an account of recent events that have affected entire communities in Colombia. The third provides an overview of the five case studies that are the focus of the book, each of which involves the use of collective action and cultural production to reclaim space, perform acts of memory, and counter hegemonies of violence in Colombia.