Is It Humane or Is It Enabling
Defining humanitarian support is a heated debate among the Hawaiian islands and homeless relief. Taxpayers, community outreaches, police, and politicians all seem to have a clashing definition. Exploring the delicate balance between developing a launching pad and enabling a vicious cycle of generational homelessness is made difficult when the motivation to heal years of hurt is often backed with mild purpose. Homelessness is a layered conversation with a wide range of stories. Solving the problem from the source is difficult despite naturally wanting to look there first. It has been over two months on Oahu. Observing different dynamics and “talking story” has brought sobering realities time and time again. One thing stays consistent: the dreams and desires people cling to.
Members of society who operate in different areas rarely have the same worldviews and motivations. Taxpayers across the board seem quick to believe the homeless simply need to go and should not be allowed any handouts such as phones, having pets, and given food. I often check the comments of articles aimed at raising awareness for the homeless situation. The comment section of the article “The State And The City Have New Homeless Czars. Can Teamwork Provide Needed Momentum?” written by Jessica Terrell is pretty interesting. One commenter stated, “The homeless "situation" cannot be solved. Unless the government starts to take away all the free stuff they get like a phone, food, health care, and animals for companionship, even though they cannot feed themselves, they say. They like living on the streets. They can continue substance abuse in front of all of us as we pass by. I also do not believe the numbers have decreased. Those who truly need a home have been helped and will be helped.” (Diane Tippett) Many agreed with her and shared similar standpoints. Reading the article, there was an initial sense of optimism about John Mizuno and the heart behind why he wants change in the homeless community. To set the tone with empathy a story sharing about his brother who had been homeless and passed away, the impact that must have left on Mr. Mizuno had to have been intense. As I read on, I was met with, “If we can successfully manage homelessness, this will set the blueprint for the rest of the country,” Mizuno said. “We’re flirting with history. It’s epic.”” This provided a hesitant response from several readers questioning what was driving him. Is he driven by selfish accord, potentially risking taxes to raise, or eager selflessness? Other personal observations include the consistent headbutting between law enforcement and community outreaches. All parties involved want change. The method to achieve that feels unrealistic when no one wants things done the same way.
Voices built on self-confidence quiet the voices of those living homeless in Oahu. A theme found in those who have successfully come out of homelessness is the need for a launching pad. A healthy launching pad on a larger scale is different from homeless shelters. With many rules and requirements, homeless shelters quickly breed discouragement. In cases involving mental illness, disheartening setbacks can trigger trauma and encourage hopeless spirits. Pushing individuals back onto the street. People need people, community, hope, and encouragement. Many people do not want change yet, but for those who do; any effort is beyond worth it! A launching pad provides community, bare minimum needs, safety, and sanitation. It doesn't permit behavior to continue as there are consistent walkthroughs and inspections. This could be the beginning of change. Taxpayers could work together to raise funds and awareness. Local outreaches could bring food distribution to the communities. Politicians could focus on removing the excess massage parlors and other businesses violating regulations or creating job opportunities for people living in the launching pad communities. Law enforcement could inspect the communities rather than spending time closing outreach teams. A theme in those looking to get back on there feet is the hope they have to be stable again, getting healing, and have their voice back.
