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“Some families live in the shelter system that is meant to be temporary for years. We need concrete responses and leadership, not just campaign slogans, regarding candidates’ plans to address these issues.”
In New York, there are many bridges, not only those made of steel and stone that connect our boroughs, but also human bridges that connect our communities. This invitation is a chance to cross such a bridge: to meet people, hear their voices, and together build a path forward.
These constructions link opportunity, people, and neighborhoods. However, for the thousands of families trapped in our shelter system, the only roads they can find are those leading them into further crises, bureaucracy, and uncertainty.
I am personally sending an open invitation for any potential candidate seeking the vote in the upcoming Democratic primary for New York City mayor to participate in a panel discussion on family homelessness Monday. And after the June primary, we hope any candidates running in the November general election will similarly engage with us and other stakeholders on these issues.
This problem is a curse on our city, one that now even middle-class families are experiencing. Knowing personally the problems that the city, state—and hell, the entire nation—faces, especially in these uncertain times, I value a leader who will overcome resistance and not hesitate to embrace a task. I appreciate the courage needed to defend what is right and essential, as well as a leader we can rely on to protect our interests. You know policies are just one aspect of the issue; if you want to run this city, then face the people most in need of leaders.
Our concerns are children being forced to complete homework in shelter hallways, parents deciding between food and MetroCards, or even finding a place to park. Thousands of families whose futures are uncertain are seeking answers and a chance to thrive in a city we love.
New York City has treated family homelessness with negligence and lack of competence. Some families live in the shelter system that is meant to be temporary for years. We need concrete responses and leadership, not just campaign slogans, regarding candidates’ plans to address these issues.
This panel will not be a routine panel discussion. Instead, it will be a genuine commitment to a fair, direct conversation with those impacted by homelessness, those who work 24/7 in advocacy venues, and those who have fought to get out of the system. We need true leadership, a mayor who will pledge to present proposals that place families above bureaucracy.
Families without homes deserve more than promises; they deserve a place at the table when future decisions are made. The invitation is still open. Will you please accept?
Rhonda Jackson is a lived experience community engagement consultant and senior fellow with the Family Homeless Coalition.
Editor’s note: The Family Homelessness Coalition is among City Limits’ funders
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