Abstract

I spite of Santiago, Chile's socioeconomic segregation,two territorially based identities also are present within this metropolitan area that offer strong proposals for social and urban integration. This study examines how inhabitants of eight neighborhoods in Santiago have constructed local identities since the 1950s. The study's findings indicate that in spite of the enormous changes experienced by Chilean society during this period and the persistence of socio-spatial segregation, the neighborhoods studied reveal the strength of their identities and their capacity to engage in a dialogue with the city. In contrast to other areas of the city, these communities initially emerged with solid identity and urban projects conceived and implemented by a diverse group of social actors. Today, residents identify with and defend their neighborhoods without relying on mechanisms designed to isolate themselves; and within this historical process, they construct and reaffirm the right to the city.