Berkeley Homeless Union demands dialogue with city officials amid encampment displacement fears

At the Berkeley City Council meeting on December 10, 2024, urgent discussions surrounding homelessness and community engagement took center stage. Representatives from the Berkeley Homeless Union passionately called for city officials to prioritize dialogue and collaboration with unhoused residents, emphasizing the need for their voices in shaping policies that affect their lives.

Gordon Gilmore, a representative of the union, highlighted the ongoing threat of displacement faced by residents at the Second Street encampment. He urged the council to ensure that any closures are handled with compassion, advocating for clear timelines and equitable shelter options, particularly for individuals with disabilities. "We are not here to obstruct, but to offer solutions," Gilmore stated, stressing the importance of including unhoused residents in decision-making processes.

Caden Hill, another speaker, addressed the potential redevelopment of People's Park, underscoring its significance as a national landmark and a refuge for many. Hill urged council members to consider the human impact of their decisions, asking how the city plans to ensure housing for displaced individuals. "These are real people's lives and they should be treated with respect," Hill asserted.

The meeting also saw support for the newly elected council members, with community members expressing hope for a collaborative approach to addressing homelessness. However, concerns were raised about recent actions, such as the early morning sweep at Old City Hall, which many described as instilling fear among the unhoused community.

As the council prepares to tackle these pressing issues, the call for a compassionate and inclusive approach remains clear. The community is eager for a government that prioritizes dignity and respect for all its residents, particularly those most vulnerable.