I have been unstably housed in Austin for more than 20 years. For some, that admission might come with immediate judgments, stigmas, and stereotypes. What you might not expect is my experience advocating to improve conditions for people experiencing homelessness like myself. I have rallied, testified, and, most recently, advocated to ensure free bus fares for those who are houseless.
From my time relying on Austin’s buses – where I sometimes spend half my day – I have a great appreciation for the drivers getting us from place to place. However, I’ve also experienced the needless aggression of off-duty Austin police officers who currently patrol the system and a small minority of Cap Metro drivers. Introducing more law enforcement only introduces more opportunities for people who are struggling to face criminalization.
Homelessness doesn’t ever look or act like one thing, despite the picture some jaded lawmakers paint. The times I’ve been seen as a violent vagrant or instigator far outnumber the times I’ve been seen as a part of the Austin community. Truth is, the only thing I’ve ever instigated is better living conditions for people like myself.
If Cap Metro wants to make bus rides safer for all of its riders, then instead of adding security guards to bus lines to criminalize and stigmatize the unhoused, Cap Metro should safeguard the critical bus pass program that has helped so many of us access more services, housing opportunities, doctor’s appointments, and more. And they should join our calls for the city and county to fund permanent housing and services for those that need it.
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