In a societal context that favors individualism, numerous obstacles impede the emergence of collective decision-making based on solidarity (Bian et al., 2022; Greene, 2008; Karklins-Marchay, 2023). This is particularly relevant to urban commons, which must mobilize a diverse population and promote inclusive democracy to protect the collective use of shared resources (Foster & Iaione, 2018; Huron, 2015; Mehan & Mehan, 2022). However, in our current cultural environment, these commons often face challenges related to a lack of cohesion and bonding among the actors involved (Baylis et al., 2018; Brain, 2019; Safarzynska & Sylwestrzak, 2023).
Solon Collectif, a common in Montreal, attempts to address this issue. One of its initiatives, the Espace des Possibles Ahuntsic (EPA), seeks to bring together citizens who share a common desire to address social and environmental crises (Solon Collective, 2020). The effects of commoning in this space quickly extended beyond it, influencing the entire neighborhood and district (Audet et al., 2019; Maison de l’innovation sociale et al., 2023).
This conference presents a recent study we conducted in collaboration with this organization, which aims to understand how commons can transform their environment to foster citizen solidarity. We will explore how these transformations challenge and reshape social and cultural practices in the process. To this end, we employed the concept of social capital, which refers to the networks and relationships that individuals or organizations can leverage in an organized manner to derive benefits (Putnam, 1995, 2000). Social capital, therefore, facilitates practices of mutual aid and solidarity and is closely associated with collective action (Healey, 2018; Kim, 2018, p. 1023). It thus becomes a critical vector for enhancing communities' capacity to influence and improve their living environments, while fostering solidarity practices.
Through a questionnaire, we assessed the social capital generated by citizens involved in the EPA. Following this, in a workshop setting, we mapped the ricochet effect of the bridging and linking ties developed by these citizens to make these connections visible at the neighborhood level (Stoecker & Avila, 2021).
By presenting the findings of this study on commoning practices, we will explore how commons can act as catalysts for social transformations that transcend their specific geographic contexts, promoting care, solidarity, and advancing social justice.
