Urban public spaces are generally viewed as regions open and accessible to a variety of individuals and may be occupied by almost anyone who chooses to be present. In fact, some scholars argue that these spaces are characterized by civility among diverse others. In distinction to this argument, I draw on ethnographic data from my ongoing field research in urban nightlife to advance the notion of integrated segregation—i.e., the idea that individuals in public space, rather than experiencing unfettered interaction with others on the downtown streets, are socially bound to interaction with those social types like themselves. After describing the concept of integrated segregation, I turn to a discussion of the use of dress codes and discrimination in urban nightlife. I argue that such exclusionary practices support integrated segregation and that these practices are in violation of Title II of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
