The Rio Grande Report: The criminalization of homelessness

As the year rolls on, news relating to homelessness seems to become more and more rare, at least locally. Of course there's the attack on panhandlers, which at least one San Antonio city councilperson has a "creative" solution to (see "Give to the homeless..." below). I'm not sure which is more ridiculous, ticketing those who want to help, or ticketing those who are in need, as the SLCPD has begun doing. Yes, if you're panhandling in Salt Lake, you're getting a loitering ticket.

In a capitalist society, poverty and homelessness are looked down upon. Vagrancy, loitering and trespassing laws are used to harrass homeless people. If arrested, homeless people are kept in jail indefinitely, at least until their day in court, because they have no address. In America, it is a crime to be poor, and your rights are seriously compromised.

There are answers.

Over the last two years, I have been promoting this street newspaper idea. I have met with little more than the best of wishes from those I've approached. I challenge local politicians and homeless advocates to gather together and make a print version of The Rio Grande Report a reality. I know some of you have access to this blog, since I share it every week on Facebook. This is a simple concept which can help so many people and begin to address the panhandling issue. I'd like the opportunity to speak with as many of you as possible, and see what part local government can play in this project. Show us you care. To learn more about me, and contact me to get involved or schedule a meeting: mrwrite@live.com

Utah

Homeless man who took on Sandy Justice Court by Stephen Dark cityweekly.net

Editors Note: There were no articles this week in Salt Lake Tribune, Deseret News, Spectrum, Herald Journal, or Standard-Examiner relating to homelessness.

Nation

CITY ROOM: 'Sophisticated travelers' with no place to go by Corey Kilgannon The New York Times

With Medicaire cuts, docs and patients drop out from The New York Times