Image 2: Outside the LA County Superior Court Whittier Courthouse, we examined a bus bench outfitted with conspicuous crossbars. These could be understood as handrails, but they have a more nefarious purpose: they prevent sleeping. It’s a common example of Defensive Design, also known as Hostile Architecture. I defined Hostile Architecture as elements of the built environment that prevent normal human activities — sitting, sleeping, playing — and target vulnerable populations. Hostile Architecture creates inequitable public space. I explained Mike Davis’s trailblazing critique in the Fortress LA chapter in City of Quartz. As we lost Mike last year, I encouraged the students to read his work so Mike can live on in us.
Why I Left Australia for Good
In Australia, the top personal income tax rate hits a whopping 45%, kicking in at $150,000 AUD per year. Some might argue that other…