The struggle for the rights of the homeless goes on in St. Petersburg, Florida. It seems that an all-out war against the homeless has begun.
The City's attempt to solve the homeless "problem" has been to not only create ordinances, and step up Police harassment, but to create their own Tent City, ironically called "New Hope Village." It is anything, but new hope! This City-run "Tent City" requires that all homeless people have their picture ID taken, wear wrist bands and go through a check point everytime they check back in. There is a 24-hour Police presence and all visitors must be checked in and approved. They are only allowed to visit residents in a designated area, similar to jail visits. One young lady, who was a resident at this site, reports that many feel like they are in a prison.
Violence against the homeless community has also increased. In the last few months, more than 10 homeless individuals have been attacked by various groups of people, and in some cases severely beaten. Additionally, three homeless people have been murdered, one just a few weeks ago. There is a great deal of fear in the beleaguered community and a real sense of betrayal towards the City.
When residents are placed somewhere, often they are only given a one-month voucher and placed in hotels where they have no tenant rights, and can be easily thrown out, thus leaving them with no resources to fight this move.
Lastly, the City continues to refuse to give a permit for Lakewood United Church of Christ to set up tents for the homeless. So, the homeless-led and governed site at this Church remains inside, while the homeless community and advocates contemplate their next action. And, the politicians, social service providers, and bureaucrats, continue to silence or ignore the movement of the poor and homeless in our community.
