I went to my very first civil-action press conference/rally today. I shouted, held signs up, and marched on City Council at City Hall in Manhattan. We were rallying to try to get legislation passed that would mandate an annual census of all abandoned buildings. Of course, I had to be there; rehabilitating abandoned buildings for the sole purpose of aiding and serving the homeless and marginalized is what I hope to be able to do when I return to Philadelphia after Mike finishes his M.Div by forming a non-profit. What better way to educate myself than actually doing it here in NY. I’ve got three years to work with these experienced civil-rights advocates. And I know I can help. I’ve got so many ideas.
Anyway, from my first impression, NYC (or at least Manhattan) doesn’t have a fraction of the abandoned buildings that Philadelphia has. And I heard many people say over the course of the month we’ve been living here that if you can’t do something in New York, then you can’t do it any where.
Apparently, the Bill (Intro 48) was sponsored in 2006, but it has stalled. I really don’t get it. I can’t fathom why anybody would object to pushing this bill through. What’s the big deal with the owner of said building or lot to report that it’s abandoned? I think the money-mongers feel threatened that we may come in and steal their property. But let me assure you, that’s not what my plan is.
What I want to help people understand is that abandoned buildings aren’t just empty, sitting buildings. Many abandoned buildings have been sitting for more than 10 years. And what happens to many of these buildings? Not only are they allowed to deteriorate and bring down the value of the properties in the neighborhood, but they actually are a huge liability.
Much of the homeless population are homeless simply because they have mental health issues or have major addiction problems (and let’s not forget the the other portion of people who are just down on their luck and who could simply use a bit of help). Many abandoned buildings serve as squatting dens to help perpetuate addiction and homelessness. And what happens when drug dens move into a neighborhood? Crime, violence, poverty, decrease in property values, and the cycle continues. Abandoned buildings help shelter the addict, thus perpetuating homelessness.
If we are able to rehabilitate buildings, not only would the homeless benefit, but the entire neighborhood would benefit. Crime rates would decrease, property values would increase, and hopefully, with the proper plan in place, we could help homeless find jobs and help addicts get clean and healthy.
When will the banks who hold the property notes begin to realize that nobody is winning while they squander their right to do nothing? I understand that it’s complicated. But, darn it, let’s work together. I’ve figured out a way that everybody wins…even the owner of the property. Now all I need is the right vehicle in which to put my ideas to work. It’ll happen…
My ultimate goal is to help the homeless realize that they shouldn’t be victims, but survivors!
Filed under: homeless advocacy Tagged: | civil rights, homeless, social justice
