Jay Pitter: Place as a social prescription
Jay Pitter is an accomplished urban placemaker, author, academic and thought leader, known for her transformative work in reshaping urban environments to foster inclusivity, equity, and collective wellbeing. With a deep commitment to social justice, Pitter's advocacy focuses on leveraging the concept of "social prescribing" as a tool to reimagine the relationship between people and the built and natural environments.
With an award-winning practice located at the nexus of urban planning and social justice, and academic leadership focused on the same, Pitter has become a prominent voice in discussions surrounding equitable urban development. Her work goes beyond traditional urban land use and policy approaches, aiming to create spaces that serve as prescriptions for social connection and community health. Through her lens, the built and natural environments become a crucial determinant of individual and collective wellbeing, influencing social interactions, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Pitter's groundbreaking contribution lies in her emphasis on "place as prescription." She believes that urban spaces are not just physical entities, but powerful agents of change that can directly impact societal health. Her innovative approach aligns with the concept of social prescribing, which involves the use of non-medical interventions, such as access to greenspace, amenities, arts, safe street infrastructure and place-based cultural practices to address various health and well-being concerns. Pitter extends this concept to the design and policy of urban public spaces, asserting that thoughtful and inclusive urban planning can act as a prescription for fostering stronger, more connected communities.
Through her practice portfolio spanning North America, writings, lectures, and workshops, Pitter champions the idea that urban design is a means of addressing social disparities. Her work encourages planners, architects, and policymakers to consider the diverse needs of communities and to prioritize spaces that promote accessibility, safety, and a sense of belonging. By integrating social prescribing principles into urban design, Pitter envisions a future where neighborhoods are more than just physical landscapes – they are living prescriptions for healthier, happier societies.
In a world where urbanization continues to grow, Jay Pitter stands at the forefront of a paradigm shift, urging us to view our cities and neighborhoods not merely as structures, but as integral components of public health.
This event will be simultaneously translated into French & English.