THE CRIMINALIZATION

OF THE HOMELESS

Thousands of people are homeless in our city. Many live in shelters, sit in doorways or hang around on the street. This can pose problems for offices and stores in the downtown area of a city. Many cities are looking for ways to control or limit loitering by passing laws that restrict where panhandling can occur or even where homeless people can sit. This has created significant controversy among citizens. To help us understand the concerns of those involved in this debate you will be assigned the role of one of the following:
- a homeless person
- a merchant
- a city official
- a homeless activist

You will research the perspective of this person and prepare to participate in a debate at city council in which you will share your unique point of view. You will dress for your role and your comments during the debate will reflect your understanding of your character. You will begin the debate by introducing yourself and making an opening statement. From here you will offer your comments at appropriate times during the debate.

To prepare for this assignment, click on the graphic and read the following article:

 

 

 

Click on the following graphic and listen to the interviews found here. Make notes about what you have learned from the people interviewed here and consider how you might use this information during the debate.

To prepare for your role play debate, you will need to read as much about the criminalization of the homeless as you can. You need to have facts, figures and examples to back up your point of view. 

 

Click on the graphic and read: "As Homeless Increases, Number of Laws Targeting the Homeless People Rises". Be sure to take a look at the "Illegal to be Homeless" report included on this web page.


Additional articles to help you prepare for the debate:

	The Homeless Hurt on Several Fronts
	Getting a Grip on a Slippery Problem DEBATE RUBRIC (pdf document)