DECEMBER 15, 2023 HOMELESSNESS There are potential issues with Ann Arbor's public bathroom pilot Public bathrooms are crucial for everyone, but for those without a stable place to live, they can be a source of worry and stress. Imagine not having a bathroom to use whenever you need it — this is the reality for many homeless individuals. One big concern is just finding a bathroom that's open and nearby. Homeless people often struggle to locate clean and safe bathrooms and sometimes have to plan their day around finding a place to use the restroom. Cleanliness is a huge issue, too. all public bathrooms Not are well-maintained, and this can make homeless individuals worried about getting sick or catching infections. Sometimes, there's no soap, toilet paper or even running water, which makes staying clean difficult. Privacy is also important. Imagine using a bathroom with no proper locks or partitions. For homeless folks, this lack of privacy can make them feel exposed or uncomfortable. Feeling safe in a public bathroom is another worry. Sometimes these places can be dangerous because of JULIANO SANCHEZ Groundcover vendor No. 174 bathrooms will help alleviate some of the pressure placed on local businesses to provide publicly accessible restrooms to the homeless population. However, one concerning detail is that the restrooms are stated to be accessible by scanning a QR code or by using a mobile app — something that some people who are unhoused or sight- or mobility-challenged may not possess, or feel comfortable using. This will potentially limit the claim by the other people hanging around. There's a fear of being harassed or even attacked which adds stress to an already tough situation. So it's not just about convenience for homeless individuals. It's about finding a safe, clean and private place to take care of basic needs. Making sure there are better options for them could really make a difference in their lives. On November 6, 2023, Ann Arbor approved a public bathroom initiative that could potentially solve these issues. ( Visit a2gov.org/news/ pages/article.aspx?i=1010). The ability to access the Throne public City of Ann Arbor that these bathrooms can provide a “safe and dignified” option for all, regardless of housing status. It would be strange to limit one of the key demographics for this program in such a way, considering the program is likely driven by a desire to better serve that exact group of people. There will be another communication about the pilot program in May where the final accessibility details will be explained. Hopefully, we will get some clarity then on how everyone will or will not be able to take advantage of these new bathrooms in June. GROUNDCOVER NEWS 5 Join the 12.21 Walk for the Homeless ERICK BROWN Groundcover vendor No. 617 On December 21st, the first day of winter and the longest night of the year, people across the country and around the world will participate in Homeless Remembrance Day, a time to honor and support the people who are experiencing homelessness. In Ann Arbor, a local group of activists and volunteers will organize a walk for the homeless, starting and ending at the Bethlehem United Church of Christ, the home of the Groundcover News. The walk will begin at sundown, 5 p.m., and will last for about an hour, covering the shopping areas of downtown Main Street. The walk is part of a 20+ year tradition that the Rock Club Foundation and I have been organizing every year. I am a survivor of a traumatic brain injury and a passionate advocate for people who are different or marginalized. I'm also known for traveling across the country with my pet goat, Deer, and organizing events such as Bicycle Day and Earth Day. The walk aims to raise awareness and visibility for the rights and dignity of the homeless and to end discrimination against the poor. The organizers ask people to bring candles and a cup to give the candle a home, symbolizing the need for protection and warmth for everyone. They also ask people to bring signs or banners to speak up about the cause. Discrimination against the poor is a serious human rights issue that affects millions of people around the world. It manifests in various forms, such as denying access to education, health care, housing, social protection and justice. It also fuels stigma, prejudice and violence against people living in poverty. The organizers believe that poverty is not inevitable, but rather the result of unfair and unequal policies and practices that favor the wealthy and powerful at the expense of the poor and marginalized. They call for a just and inclusive economy that puts people and the planet at the center, and that respects the dignity and agency of everyone. The organizers invite everyone who wants to participate in this event, even if they are not able to join the walk in Ann Arbor. They encourage people to start or join a walk for the homeless in their cities, or to make posts on social media using the hashtag #1221 or #HomelessRemembranceDay. They also welcome donations and support for the Rock Club Foundation and Groundcover News, two organizations that work to empower and uplift the homeless community. The Walk for the Homeless is a noble and compassionate initiative that deserves more attention and support. It is a way to remember the people who have died while living on the streets or in shelters and to show solidarity and empathy for the people who are still struggling. It is also a way to celebrate the resilience and strength of the human spirit, and to hope for a better future for everyone. The organizers also want to share the meaning of 12/21, which is not only the date of the event but also a numerical pattern that can have different meanings depending on the context. For example, 12/21 is an hour mirror, a mathematical expression, and a spiritual sign. Some people believe that seeing 12/21 repeatedly is a message from the universe or the angels, indicating harmony, optimism, idealism and family. These are the values that the Walk for the Homeless strives to promote and uphold. If you are interested in joining or supporting the 1221 Walk for the Homeless, please contact the Rock Club Foundation on social media or visit their website.
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