Anti-Homeless Attitudes: A Cultural Issue

As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, most of us find more and more excuses to stay home. Staying inside a warm house or apartment with a cup of hot chocolate seems like the only way to bear the Minnesota winter. Unfortunately for many people in Minneapolis, that is not an option. On a single night in Hennepin county alone, there are over 2,500 people experiencing homelessness.

For years, the ever-infamous Minneapolis Police Department has been taking matters into their own hands, opting to clear out homeless encampments around the city. In October of 2022, as a form of protest and a way to get the city council’s attention, the displaced residents chose to pitch tents outside of City Hall. City Council member Aisha Chughtai proposed a temporary stop to the encampment evictions in response; this was later rejected in a 4-8 vote against it. 

Even walking through our own University of Minnesota campus, it’s hard not to notice the abundance of anti-homeless architecture. The slanted benches at the light rail station are a prime example. Not only are they ugly and uncomfortable, but also intentionally designed to prevent unhoused people from sleeping on them. This is a small indication of a big problem that exists on a huge scale in urban areas like ours.

While some homeless shelters and organizations around the city are willing to help, many are either at their maximum capacity or simply don’t have the resources to help everyone who comes in. The truth is, homelessness is a problem that needs to be addressed in policy and in a way that puts human dignity first. People experiencing homelessness are continuously treated like they’re a nuisance. Until this perspective shifts to one of understanding and compassion, no permanent change will be made. 

For anyone interested in helping, there are a few organizations addressing homelessness around the city who are looking for volunteers or donations. If you’re feeling charitable this holiday season, People Serving People, Open Your Heart, and Avenues for Youth are some of the many organizations around the cities that students can get involved with.

Thumbnail image: Brandon Ferdig, The Sun Current