Vice for Sale: Neighbourhood Change and Illicit Markets

A common assumption about gentrification is that it displaces poor and minority residents, their local businesses, and even neighbourhood crime. However, questions remain about displacement and the social control mechanisms of gentrification–especially on non-violent crimes. Drawing on this work, we will explore what happens to illicit markets, such as sex work and drug sales, and the individuals who participate in them when neighbourhood gentrification occur occurs. To do this, we will conduct in-depth archival research to track the types, number, clustering, and longevity of legal (but illicit market adjacent) businesses over time to see if they are similarly impacted by gentrification. After we have collected and organised the data, we will code the data and use RStudio to map these markets and their changes. Ultimately, these findings will be presented at conferences and fed into urban policies to prioritize public health and safety for all.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chris Smith

Student:

Partner:

Newcastle University

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Other; Public Service, Policy, and Governance

University:

University of Toronto

Program: