Protections for unhoused overturned by U.S. Supreme Court. What we must do now.

Today, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned key protections of unhoused people from unnecessary policing, permitting cities to arrest and jail people simply for sleeping outside.

The heartbreaking reality is that we’ll see a rise in over policing of a population that is already disproportionately targeted by law enforcement. Studies show that policies that forcibly displace unhoused people via sweeps or camping bans increase hospitalization, overdose, and death.

Grants Pass v. Johnson did not come about in a vacuum. As high housing costs and inequality continue to drive our houselessness crisis, patience is wearing thin and politicians are looking for quick fixes. Today’s decision will only embolden certain politicians to push for more policies that dehumanize and punish people in poverty.

Systemic change is a key pillar of Sisters of the Road because houselessness is a systemic failure. It is not a failure of individual choice. The only way we can address this crisis is by addressing the root causes by investing in affordable housing and support services.

Today, we recommit ourselves to fight against stigmatizing policies and attitudes that deepen the houselessness crisis. It will take every one of us collectively raising our voice to push our leaders to invest in real solutions, rather than punishment.

Join us today.