Get to know The Third Space!
The Third Space was created to fill the need for more “third places” in modern life. Sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined the term to describe the areas where people spend time outside of the “first place” of home and the “second place” of work. Third places, which include cafes, pubs and coworking/community spaces (like The Third Space) provide a positive environment in which to share ideas, make new friends, and have fun.
Third places are special in that they are often equitable in ways that first and second places are not. At many third places, individuals are treated as equals regardless of their income, gender or background. Third places cultivate diversity and understanding by building relationships among people who might not have the chance to interact in their first and second place lives. This has always been our goal for The Third Space.
Unfortunately, third places are becoming more and more rare. This lack of a place where we can relax, where “everybody knows your name and they’re always glad you came,” as they say on Cheers, contributes to a sense of isolation. We are feeling more and more lonely, not only during this outbreak, but all the time. At The Third Space, we believe that fighting to increase access to third places is essential for our individual and societal wellbeing.
The COVID-19 outbreak is hurting certain sectors of society far more than others. Access to third places that promote equity is all the more important as a result. For now, that access may be remote, but we hope that third place advocates will help ensure the continuation of welcoming places for people to gather in-person once the pandemic is over.
