This will be published with the Examiner next week. Here is a sneak peek:
Stereotypical society oppresses homeless
The reasons for homelessness far exceed just addiction alone. Eviction, job loss, illness, and mental instability are all contributing factors of displacement. Many homeless individuals turn to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism, in an effort to deal with their unfortunate plight. Contrary to popular belief, they do not become homeless because they are addicts-they turn to addiction because they are homeless. Society perceives homeless individuals as worthless and lazy-that they either desire or deserve to be homeless. In addition, society tends to oppress those who do not live by our standards. In essence, we are equally to blame for habitual homelessness. If we are ever to combat homelessness, we must first start at the root and dissolve these misconceived stereotypes.
Nichole Jaworski
