Commercial gentrification and stigmatization from violence. The case of the historic center of Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua; 2009-2017

Authors

Abstract

The phenomenon of violence and insecurity that Ciudad Juarez experienced from 2007 made the different governmental areas elaborate urban intervention and renewal strategies to reduce crime indicators. Since the historical center is where this process begins, because there were pointed out several shops known as black turns (bars, canteens, nightclubs and hotels) that were judged by the federal and local government as fostering an atmosphere of violence. The objective is to analyze and describe this process of urban intervention that resulted in the disappearance of these businesses. The methodology used is a mixed profile based on a socio-spatial analysis in 2009 and 2017, based on the National Statistical Directory of Economic Units (DENUE) and archival research of local trade institutions. The findings expose the disappearance of these types of businesses intensively during the height of violence in Ciudad Juarez, particularly in the tourist subzone. The results show that the intervention policy was justified in a violent and insecure context, based on a diagnosis in its plans and programs that stigmatized commercial activities, groups and places.

Keywords:

Commercial gentrification, historic center, stigmatization, violence