Civil rights advocates are opposing Mayor Mahan's proposal to arrest homeless individuals refusing shelter, arguing that it disproportionately affects marginalized communities including Black, brown, and disabled individuals. Reports indicate systemic inequalities in housing have led to overrepresentation of these groups within the unhoused population. Critics highlight that criminalizing homelessness exacerbates mental health issues and substance use disorders by reinforcing negative interactions with law enforcement rather than providing necessary support and resources. The advocates contend that this approach to homelessness neglects the root causes of the crisis and places vulnerable individuals at further risk.
As civil rights advocates, we strongly oppose Mayor Mahan's proposal to arrest homeless individuals who refuse shelter. This policy will disproportionately harm Black and brown people, including those with disabilities.
Police interactions with disabled homeless individuals can escalate dangerously, sometimes resulting in excessive force or neglect. Criminalizing mental illness and substance use disorders instead of investing in medical or social support exacerbates these conditions.
Individuals with disabilities make up nearly half of the homeless population, often due to a lack of accessible housing, employment discrimination, and inadequate access to healthcare or other essential supports.
Jails are ill-equipped to provide adequate mental health or addiction treatment. People with conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression often deteriorate in jail, where the environment can exacerbate anxiety, PTSD, and psychosis.
Collection
[
|
...
]