Night of Mercy

Last week, Real Change held our fourth campout at City Hall to protest the homeless sweeps. I wasn't there this time. Being sick and hanging out in twenty degree weather overnight in the rain and snow didn't seem like such a great idea. Some, however, don't have the luxury of this choice. Real Change put out the word that we need survival gear to replace that which the city routinely steals, and the response has been overwhelming. That night alone, we gave away around two tons of blankets, sleeping bags, coats and warm clothing. The donations are still coming in. People get it, even if the Mayor doesn't. Professor Gail Stygall of the University of Washington was on hand to talk about the report released that day, documenting the city's campaign of dehumanization on the homeless sweeps issue. Once again, that report is available here. The video of the event is by Revel Smith, the second speaker shown.