Work

When inclusion excludes: Challenging social mixing as a solution to educational inequality through the lens of gentrification

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Social mixing or desegregation is frequently presented as a means to reduce inequalities affecting minoritized and low-income communities not only in neighborhoods but also in schools. Building on the emerging literature on school gentrification, this study examines this master narrative by centering the experiences of minoritized working-class families in a gentrifying inner-city school in Ghent, Belgium. Using interview data, we argue that social mixing does not necessarily eliminate existing inequalities but can, in fact, generate new ones. The article concludes by outlining key implications for future research, policy and practice.

Source: Journal of Urban Affairs

DOI: 10.1080/07352166.2025.2533284

Authors: Cedric Goossens, Iremgül Utlu, Lieve Bradt, Stijn Oosterlynck

Institutions: University of Liège, UCLouvain, Ghent University, University of Antwerp

Language: English

Topic: Urban, Neighborhood, and Segregation Studies

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Quality education, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W4413247626

FWCI:

Cites: 67

Cited by:

Related to: 10