By Jose Perez Perez
LAZINESS!
It is snap judgment many people make when they see someone unhoused, loitering about. But are we just calling it like it is or are we just judging a book by its covers
The truth is, living on the streets takes more effort that one thinks. It’s not living; its surviving. Every day means no shelter, no rest, no safety net. You’re constantly searching for food, walking miles on end, battling the elements, guarding yourself and your belongings. It’s a full-time job with no breaks
Still think it’s laziness. According to Oasis Community Housing, unhoused individuals often walk 10 to 15 miles per day just to find food, shelter, or a safe place to rest. That kind of constant movement takes a serious toll; physically, mentally, and emotionally. Add in sleep deprivation, malnutrition, and the constant stress of being on high alert, and it becomes quite clear: this life isn’t one of leisure; it’s one of survival.
Nevertheless, the common belief persists; that unhoused individuals chose this life rather than being forced into it by crisis and circumstance. Research from the Society for Personality and Social Psychology shows that when people believe homelessness is caused by personal failure, they are more likely to dehumanize those affected. But when we understand the structural causes, like poverty, trauma, or lack of access to housing, empathy increases, and harmful attitudes decrease.
We need stop labeling people as “lazy” and start recognizing the truth: it’s not laziness, its survival. And survival deserves dignity not judgments
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