-Relatability: For most Americans, it is probably easier to imagine a tornado coming through your town and destroying their life than imagining losing their job and becoming homeless. This could be one of the causes because it is simply easier to relate to the tragedy of a person in a natural disaster.
-The Uncomfortable Factor: For some reason, homelessness makes many people uncomfortable. Even though people generally try to pretend to be sympathetic towards homeless people sitting on the street, most people truly feel uneasy when in the presence of them. Obviously, people would rather donate time and funds to something they feel comfortable thinking about instead of an issue that makes them feel uneasy. I truly have no idea what the answer to this question is, but the above ideas are just some guesses. Do you agree with any of these ideas? Do you have any other possible answers to the question?
Ellie-
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, happy summer! I think one of the reasons homelessness in particular is overlooked is because it is often hidden, by those experiencing it and by those observing it. In eighth grade in Social Studies we watched a movie called "Hidden in America" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hidden_in_America). It isn't an Oscar worthy film, but it gets the gist of what it is like to live in poverty and not be noticed. Physically destroyed homes are obvious, unlike no home at all. Like you said, most people are uncomfortable with around homeless people- if it becomes less stigmatized ("all homeless people are drug addicts" "all homeless people are mentally ill" etc.) then maybe the public will be more receptive.
By the way this is Glenna! It just wouldn't let me sign in for some reason
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