"Knowing My Way around" - The Role of Urban Spaces for Migrant Identity Content and Sense of Belonging in Germany

Sense of belonging (SoB) and identity content have been studied focusing on social relations, but, as we suggest, might also involve a spatial dimension. The present project set out to better understand the relationship between space, SoB and identity content in the context of relocation. The research consisted of qualitative semi-structured and go-along interviews with 36 external migrants who live in four different German cities: Berlin, Bremen, Leipzig or Stuttgart. Using Thematic Analysis four themes were developed: Spaces to stand out and fit in, spaces of being oneself, spaces of well-being and spaces of familiarity. Results indicate that certain spaces, such as all-white or discriminatory spaces stimulate "foreigner"-identity content and evoke feelings of non-belonging. Other spaces, such as blue-green, aesthetic, familiar concept or multicultural spaces allow participants to experience identity continuity and develop SoB. Furthermore, results show two sides of being perceived in public spaces, and the importance not only of positive daily interactions, but of immersing oneself passively into social life, of blending in and of celebrating one's culture. Results are discussed with a special focus on the role of "nodding encounters" and urban blue green spaces.