The information on the website was created for the 2021 Massey Cities Summit, a global conference on the constitutional status of cities. While the information is not current and will not be updated, we wanted you to have access to the archive of blog posts, podcasts, articles, videos, and other information.
Making the case for constitutional power for Canadian cities
When we think of Canadian cities, we might picture the places where we live, work, and gather—a straightforward concept at first glance. But from a constitutional standpoint, cities in Canada occupy a challenging position, often compared to the “middle child” in the family.
Constitutional Space for Cities
Constitutional Space for Cities in Europe: the role of the CoE and the EU
The current situation with Covid-19 Pandemic raises new challenges for cities and for European policies and actions related to cities. The EU Recovery Plan and the long term budget for 2021-2027 will be a test to see how much the EU consider cities important to achieve a sustainable recovery for Europe. Gabriella Saputelli explores several different perspectives.
Detasking the Police to Promote Public Safety
From the pandemic to racist policing, many have called for substantial changes in the ways cities structure municipal governance, services, and budgeting, including their relationships with policing. Are cities equipped to deal with these reform proposals? What is necessary to get the cities we need? Akwasi Owusu-Bempah chimes in ahead of his session Cities and Policing.
Taking up the Gauntlet: Cities as a challenge to federalism theory
Constitutional theory and practice are blind to the new ‘century of the city’. Federalism theory in particular is under attack. Some find it inadequate and in need of re-thinking; others suggest to replace it altogether. Prof. dr. Patricia Popelier explores all viewpoints ahead of the Massey Cities Summit, April 6 - 8.
Against Innovation
What is the relationship between cities and innovation? It has long been an opinion that cities are drivers of economic innovation, but what about the claim that cities are or should be in the vanguard when it comes to policymaking. Richard Schragger explores both notions and his point of view ahead of the first Massey Cities Summit taking place April 6 - 8, 2021
Thank you to all attendees, panellists, and moderators for helping to make this conference a success.
City in Sight Podcast Series: Episode 3
Indigenous Cities
The Indigenous population in urban areas is growing fast. What are cities doing to provide for these populations, to build cities that reflect these communities, and to address the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission? Would greater autonomy for cities help achieve these goals? To find out, we speak to three Canadian mayors.
Mayor Rebecca Alty, Yellowknife
Mayor Brian Bowman, Winnipeg
Mayor Charlie Clarke, Saskatoon