What's at stake when people lack places to connect? Toronto Star city columnist Edward Keenan speaks with Bloomberg Public Innovation Fellow Tommi Laitio, cultural sociologist Saara Liinamaa and youth-focused urban planner Ryan Lo about the vital role public space can play in our urban centres. Drawing from examples here in Toronto and around the globe, the panel will explore the many ways in which people and institutions are working to address ongoing challenges to civic engagement, democratic participation and human connection.

How does the erosion of public space impact our sense of community and belonging? What are the implications for democracy when there are fewer public spaces to engage with each other? What can we do to ensure that remaining public spaces spark human connection, civic engagement and dialogue?

Join the conversation.

Part of the Toronto Public Library's new series exploring what's at stake when intellectual freedom is threatened.