Ep. 64 - Criminalizing the Crisis, Part 1: Inside the Supreme Court's Homeless Encampment Ruling

In the first part of our series focused on SCOTUS' decision to allow cities to ban encampments, we delve into the Supreme Court’s recent decision in the City of Grants Pass v. Johnson case, which allows cities to ban homeless encampments. This landmark ruling has far-reaching implications for unhoused individuals across the nation, and understanding its legal context is crucial for those who advocate for the rights and dignity of vulnerable populations.

We explore the history behind this ruling, including key cases like Robinson v. California and Powell v. Texas, and the 8th Amendment's role in shaping the legal landscape. Our speakers break down why the Court ruled as it did, analyze the critiques by the dissent, and discuss the potential impact on those experiencing homelessness. We also examine the limits of the ruling and explore possible avenues for challenging the Court’s decision, including actions that can be taken by state and local governments.

Guest Speakers:

Kylie Clark: Kylie Clark is a dedicated advocate for human rights and a master's student at Columbia University. Her work focuses on ensuring that everyone has access to basic necessities such as shelter and food through advocacy, policy change, and direct interactions with those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.

Kristen Aster: Kristen Aster is the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy at The People Concern. She leads efforts to implement strategic goals regarding homelessness, housing, and domestic violence policy. With over fifteen years of experience in policy and advocacy across various non-profits, Kristen has worked on civic engagement and community relations. She holds a master’s degree in Public Policy from Georgetown University.

This event provides an in-depth understanding of the legal frameworks at play and lays the groundwork for our second session, which focuses on taking action in light of these challenges.

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