25 Jul How The Recent Supreme Court Ruling Will Affect The Unhoused Community and Further An Ongoing Crisis

As the nation’s Supreme Court concluded its current session, the country found itself withstanding many sweeping and landmark decisions. One that is extremely important but often overlooked in the headlines is Grant’s Pass v Johnson. In this case, the Supreme Court ruled in a 6-3 majority to uphold anti-houseless legislation, empowering other cities, towns, and communities to quickly follow such aggressive legislation. While this case is a judicial first, it is a symptom of the larger war being placed against the unhoused community in the United States.

Examining Grant’s Pass v Johnson

The argument within Grant’s Pass v Johnson revolved around the premise that a city, in this case, Grant’s Pass, Oregon, can not place criminal and civil penalties on sleeping or camping on public land, as it is a form of cruel and unusual punishment against unhoused individuals. However, to the six conservative judges, this argument against the constitutionality of these penalties fell flat. Instead, they are choosing to validate the authority of these local governments to enact and enforce laws that regulate activities heavily associated with homelessness. While proponents argue that such drastic measures are necessary for public safety and sanitation, critics around the nation see how this ruling will simply exacerbate and criminalize the challenges faced by an extremely at-risk community. 

Implications Across The Nation

This case will send shockwaves across the nation, as now countless other states, cities, and even communities have the legal backing to enforce such legislation. Criminalizing or making people pay fines will only further their separation from society. People will be imprisoned for simply needing a place to sleep or lie down. Overall, this is a disastrous precedent that can cause exponential suffering to at-risk individuals. 

Context of Anti-Houseless Attitudes and Efforts in the United States

However, while the recent Supreme Court case marks the first time the question of anti-houselessness has been raised in the legal field, it is part of an ongoing crisis enforced upon the unhoused community. Major cities throughout the United States often use aggressive methods of sweeps, brutality, and imprisonment to contain what they deem as dangerous communities. However, in truth, the crisis is being implemented through institutions. Lack of affordable housing, adequate mental health care, addiction treatment, high-paying jobs, and overall social welfare has abandoned our fellow citizens. Combining that with overall negative perceptions and support from the public, unhoused individuals have the odds stacked against them. 

Calls To Action 

There are many methods and ways that individuals can advocate and take action to help the unhoused community equitably, but this post will highlight three specific avenues. 

1. Educate Oneself About The Unhoused Community 

To help understand the recent Supreme Court ruling and its implications on the unhoused community, the most essential thing that can be done is to read the decision written by the judges. However, there should be an expanded effort to understand the realities of being unhoused, whose stories are often completely ignored. People should take the time to listen to the experiences of unhoused individuals. By seeking this understanding, individuals who want to help can get a better perspective on the issue and, when they do help, understand their privilege on the issue. 

1. Foster and Participate in Community Action 

Being on the ground is also an important method to help the unhoused community in any way that takes form. Let it be in the form of an advocacy group that volunteers to provide meals or helps confront efforts by police to remove unhoused individuals’ personal belongings. Volunteer your time, skills, or resources to assist these efforts and make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected. Furthermore, if able, people should try to encourage community involvement because collective action will bring actual progress.

1. Support Local Initiatives 

The last highlighted action that can be undertaken is using one’s ability in local or state-level electoral politics. The power is in the ballot, and using that voice and encouraging others to do the same will have a tremendous impact on the implementation of these bills. Voting on down-ballot races, such as city council members, commissioners, and city initiatives, is crucial. Similar to the above suggestion, individuals could call their representatives, participate in public forums, or canvas for efforts to benefit the unhoused. 

This is by no means a comprehensive list, as action can look different to everyone, and any effort should be applauded if it is made. 

Moving Forward with Compassion and Innovation

However, beyond calls for action, Grant’s Pass v Johnson represents a critical juncture for reflection and action regarding houselessness in our society. It challenges society to rethink its approach, prioritize compassionate solutions, and advocate for systemic change. As individuals and organizations, we have a collective responsibility to uphold the dignity and rights of all individuals, including those experiencing homelessness.

Every action we take—whether through advocacy, local support, policy engagement, or collaboration—contributes to a more significant movement toward equity and justice. Together, we can work to address homelessness effectively, promote social inclusion, and build communities where everyone can thrive.

By Toby Keeler

If you haven’t yet had the opportunity, make sure to order a copy of Elmer Dixon’s powerful memoir DIE STANDING: From Black Panther Revolutionary to Global Diversity Consultant and check out what others have been saying about Elmer and his story. 

Check out these other opportunities to see what folks are saying about Elmer and his continued work. 

• See Elmer speak at Stories from the Revolutions’ Front Lines at his keynote at TEDxUTulsa
• Listen to Elmer talk on NPR’s The Jefferson Exchange
• Read about Elmer’s story in a piece featured in The Seattle Times
• Listen to Elmer on The Medium