Violence in Homeless Communities

There are many threats and dangers the homeless population faces; however, among those is violence from people both in and outside of the community. Data from a survey conducted by Gov1 states that in 2017, 29 homeless individuals were attacked due to 'anti-homeless' ideations; 11 of which died. In 2016, 83 individuals were attacked, 37 of which were killed. However, research shows the number of deaths on the streets is closer to 13,000. 

There are many forms of violence that can be committed but the most common include harassment, murder, assault with deadly weapons, sexual assault and law enforcement brutality. More than one in three homeless individuals have experienced some sort of harassment while they were experiencing homelessness. A report conducted by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center states that 78.3% of women experiencing homelessness have been subjected to some sort of sexual assault. 

Although they are not physical violence, issues such as disability, injury, illness, and mental illness can all cause mental/emotional violence along with simply being issues unaddressed by society within the homeless population. Harvard University published research that states a tenth of homeless individuals are physically disabled in some manner which can significantly decrease ease of living. Mental illness can also severely impact those experiencing homelessness and is a leading cause in the United States. Systems within the US are not designed to help people once they are experiencing homelessness. Mental health services are difficult to obtain in general, however, it can be nearly impossible without accessible resources which are not often available to homeless populations. Offering free, government funded resources and support would significantly help in reducing the number of homeless individuals who are in that position due to unaccessible mental health care. 

In this video from KPIX CBS SF Bay Area it can be seen that homeless populations in cities across the country face violence and threats from people who are 'anti-homeless'. Do be aware, this video contains graphic threats against homeless individuals in San Francisco. 

This is a very real issue many homeless individuals face. Within our own communities as well as on a national scale, there are a few things that can be done. In an idealistic sense, getting everyone off of the street or into a shelter would be the fastest way to reduce violence. However, other solutions could include, passing legislations that make violence against the homeless a hate crime, increasing police officer training on how to approach homeless individuals and, updating municipal codes in cities that punish individuals for different life-sustaining behaviors while not providing alternatives. As well, there is a need for our society to educate and remove stigmas around the homeless population which will hopefully decrease hate-related violence. Homeless individuals, just as everyone else, deserve respect, kindness and compassion. 

If you would like to learn more about this visit the National Coalition for the Homeless

- Gabby Jones