Public Space and Politics

Public space and politics? What could public space possibly have to do with politics? There is a significant amount of influence on a public space by politics. The idea of the “public sphere” as an arena of political deliberation and participation, and therefore as fundamental to democratic governance, has a long and distinguished history (Smith, 2006). Historically many of these public spaces has been used for democratic forums and for use by the civil society. There would have been rallies, protests and various other political forums. Politics also helped in the formation and the structure of cities, politicians strategically placed public spaces in order to declare political power, however the political power of the public spaces can be dissipated.  The Politics of Public Space and Culture is an appeal to save those public parks and plazas that have historically facilitated social interactions and political engagement, not only in Latin America, but in other parts of the world as well. (Austin, 2000).

Ornate Fountain at Woodford Square Port of Spain

Woodford Square in Port of Spain has been a social and political icon due to the riveting history which lies behind this space. Before its current name it was called Brunswick Square, this is when the Germans took charge of the area. However the name was changed to Woodford Square in 1917 when Sir Ralph Woodford, a British Governor of Trinidad took charge and transformed the square and some of the city, after the fire in 1808. The fountain in the picture above was donated by the Scotsman Gregor Trunbull in 1866. During the pre-independence period (Trinidad gained independence in 1962), the Square was use by Dr. Eric Williams, the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago to deliver a lecture on leadership and government. The Square was since then given the moniker "The University Square." The square became grounds for continued political activity and a place for persons to voice their opinions.

Description Of the Historical Woodford Square Placed by the Ministry of Tourism

The Picture above is a sign which was placed by the Ministry of Tourism in the Square to give a brief description on the history of the square. It allows the users of the Square to appreciate the same square they use, and understand the role it played in the Political history of Trinidad and Tobago.