LASA gathered in September at The Huntington to learn more about homelessness in LA. The complexity of this issue and the desire of all of us to remain focused on the humanity of all Angelenos made for a weighty day.
We began, though, by welcoming those who were unable to join us in the summer. LASA students explored The Huntington to take images that created their LA stories – from focusing on trash, to the metaphorical LA, to issues of water and access. LASA student Margot reflected on The Huntington’s gardens and grounds: “It’s always such a peaceful and beautiful space, which made the experience even more special.”
We then spent some time preparing for our conversation. We began by considering how students define “homelessness.” Then, LASA brainstormed a list of the organizations they knew of engaged in addressing homelessness and conducted research to share with the rest of the group. From Union Station Homeless Services in Pasadena to tiny homes to Alexandria House and beyond, the range of approaches and goals – and the geographies covered started LASA thinking about the breadth of issues we must consider.
LASA then welcomed Seth Pickens from the USC Homelessness Policy Research Institute. He shared his experiences coming to this work and the research he’s conducted regarding guaranteed basic income, counseling, and other services for community college students in Southern California. LASA students asked him questions and set out their ideas for next steps. So many of the reflections captured different aspects of the day. These sections of some of them are a good place to start thinking about next steps:
Samantha: This meeting made me grow as person, by allowing me to really learn in a deeper sensor over homelessness in Los Angeles.
Hope: It made me realize just how complicated the issue has become and how much work remains to be done.
Carmela: It became clear that addressing homelessness requires a varied approach, including affordable housing, mental health services, and community support.
Reed: It shocked me that homelessness can be criminalized and that contrary to what I had believed, the cost of living is actually the main cause for homelessness. Understanding the various factors behind it has deepened my perspective and empathy for the homeless community. I also enjoyed the conversation the group had about the word “homelessness” and the negative connotations that it carries.
Jack: One thing I wish we had discussed in more depth is the amount of terrible treatment that homeless people go through on a daily basis.
Mia: While I must admit the lack of solutions he provided was a bit disheartening, learning about current organizations combating homelessness in LA did provide hope. …I do believe that by empowering us with the tools of critical thinking, LASA is giving our generation the best chance we can have at creating an enduring and empathic solution.
Thank you to Seth Pickens for joining us. We look forward to gathering again in October.