607. Challenging gentrification. Resistance to displacement in the historic centers of Quito and Cuenca

Abstract

One of the main consequences of gentrification is the displacement of poor and vulnerable residents. In the present investigation, we work in a comparative analysis of two resistance movements in the Ecuadorian cities of Quito and Cuenca to understand the processes of organization and protest against different types of displacements generated in historical and patrimonial centers. In both cases, a favorable opportunity structure is evident; strengths and weaknesses respect to the mobilization of resource, but there are important difficulties in the construction of identity and interpretive frameworks. As a result, such movements are effective in resisting direct movements and the chain of movements, but unable to avoid the pressure of displacement and exclusive displacement.