I'm glad you wrote this. I'm from the US--Chicago--and I was wondering how the homelessness would effect you. The problem is more noticeable in Seattle and Portland, especially, because it's something of a destination for marginal people, given the weather and the drug laws. (You probably discovered that all drugs are legal in Portland.) I'm seeing more and more homeless camps in Chicago, too, and it's surprising how quickly everyone gets used to it. Lots of space helps, I guess, as you say. Americans also tend to be deft at ignoring the marginalized. The hatred I often see for the disadvantaged takes my breath away. America is big into ableism. Anyway, I'm glad you mostly enjoyed your trip; it sounds like a major undertaking! And while I'm here, let me tell you how much I enjoy your writing! About everything, but especially your mental health pieces. They help.
Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment. I was hoping I wouldn't upset or offend people and that people would write thoughtful things in response, which you so beautifully did. We're pretty good at ignoring the marginalised here, too. There is still a strong narrative that drives a lot of people, that the only people who fall through the cracks are those who are lazy or stupid or just not trying hard enough. It makes me seethe. x
thank you for writing these necessary words. as someone who walks and drives around downtown portland, i see firsthand the faces of those experiencing homelessness. unless someone is clearly strung out and seems dangerous, i make eye contact and offer my respect. we are all human beings and i don't know what transpired in someone's life that led them to live on the street. it is a complex issue needing multiple approaches that offer dignity and hope.
Thank you for your words. I agree, we are all human and the line between those people and us is not so big or strong as we tend to think when we are on the right side of it. Treating people as we hope people would treat us in our distress is always a good idea. x
Interesting. I have American colleagues who live here and who I work with remotely. Talking with them makes me aware of how English I am when it’s invisible to me a lot of the time
I’m noticing the increase in homelessness here and what can I do. I too am taking the approach of witness. Looking at them saying morning (which is do to a lot of people) and acknowledging their humanity
Yes, speaking to people and not letting our eyes slide over them can sometimes be the most powerful thing. Jason had an amazing conversation with a woman on Oxford street once. He asked her if she needed some food and she said no, but if he had time, she was desperate for a conversation with another human being. They had a fantastic chat.
I'm glad you wrote this. I'm from the US--Chicago--and I was wondering how the homelessness would effect you. The problem is more noticeable in Seattle and Portland, especially, because it's something of a destination for marginal people, given the weather and the drug laws. (You probably discovered that all drugs are legal in Portland.) I'm seeing more and more homeless camps in Chicago, too, and it's surprising how quickly everyone gets used to it. Lots of space helps, I guess, as you say. Americans also tend to be deft at ignoring the marginalized. The hatred I often see for the disadvantaged takes my breath away. America is big into ableism. Anyway, I'm glad you mostly enjoyed your trip; it sounds like a major undertaking! And while I'm here, let me tell you how much I enjoy your writing! About everything, but especially your mental health pieces. They help.
Thanks so much for your thoughtful comment. I was hoping I wouldn't upset or offend people and that people would write thoughtful things in response, which you so beautifully did. We're pretty good at ignoring the marginalised here, too. There is still a strong narrative that drives a lot of people, that the only people who fall through the cracks are those who are lazy or stupid or just not trying hard enough. It makes me seethe. x
thank you for writing these necessary words. as someone who walks and drives around downtown portland, i see firsthand the faces of those experiencing homelessness. unless someone is clearly strung out and seems dangerous, i make eye contact and offer my respect. we are all human beings and i don't know what transpired in someone's life that led them to live on the street. it is a complex issue needing multiple approaches that offer dignity and hope.
Thank you for your words. I agree, we are all human and the line between those people and us is not so big or strong as we tend to think when we are on the right side of it. Treating people as we hope people would treat us in our distress is always a good idea. x
Interesting. I have American colleagues who live here and who I work with remotely. Talking with them makes me aware of how English I am when it’s invisible to me a lot of the time
I’m noticing the increase in homelessness here and what can I do. I too am taking the approach of witness. Looking at them saying morning (which is do to a lot of people) and acknowledging their humanity
Yes, speaking to people and not letting our eyes slide over them can sometimes be the most powerful thing. Jason had an amazing conversation with a woman on Oxford street once. He asked her if she needed some food and she said no, but if he had time, she was desperate for a conversation with another human being. They had a fantastic chat.
So glad you wrote this piece, would love to see a travel book eg lonely planet include these real aspects of travel!
That would be so good. x
Thank you - great piece. Such difficult stuff. And important to speak of it as you are doing.🙏🏻
Thank you. x