The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear a case that could significantly impact the rights of homeless individuals in America. The case, originally filed in 2018, will determine whether punishing people for sleeping outdoors on public property when they have no other options violates the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishments. The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has submitted an amicus brief supporting the respondents.
Efrén Olivares, director of strategic litigation and advocacy at the SPLC, expressed concerns about potential implications if policies like those in Grants Pass are upheld. "Our nation has a dark historic legacy of punishing people of color for being poor, particularly Black communities and indigenous people. If the policy of Grants Pass is upheld, we will return to that horrendous reality," he stated. Olivares emphasized the importance of this decision for America's future direction regarding affordable housing rights.
Kirsten Anderson, deputy legal director for economic justice at the SPLC, noted similar legislative trends in states such as Florida and Georgia. "As we detail in our amicus brief, we’re seeing similar situations that mimic the argument of Grants Pass in states like Florida and Georgia, where legislation is being passed that bans camping or sleeping on public property even if people have no indoor alternatives," she said. Anderson highlighted how these policies could negatively affect families who are already vulnerable to homelessness.
A rally held today at the Supreme Court showcased broad support for homeless individuals' rights and called for a shift from criminalization to compassionate housing-first solutions.