Statement: The Los Angeles LGBT Center Reacts to SCOTUS Ruling in City of Grants Pass vs. Johnson
LOS ANGELES, June 28, 2024–Responding to today’s highly contentious Supreme Court ruling that criminalizes homelessness, the Los Angeles LGBT Center released the following statement:
“The Los Angeles LGBT Center condemns the recent Supreme Court decision in City of Grants Pass, Oregon vs. Johnson, enabling U.S. cities to criminalize individuals experiencing homelessness. This ruling not only perpetuates systemic injustice but also exacerbates the daily risks faced by marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals.
The decision blatantly undermines fundamental human rights and codifies discrimination by stigmatizing vulnerable individuals with already limited access to housing and support services. Housing, like sleep and food security, is a basic human need–tens of thousands of people lack pathways to afford basic necessities while public officials continue failing to provide it. Our country must decide whether we strive to uplift our collective humanity or opt to embrace cruelty. Today’s decision is a clear step towards cruelty, and if left unchecked poses devastating consequences.
As the only nonprofit organization providing dedicated housing to LGBTQ+ youth and seniors, the Center remains in solidarity with all individuals impacted by this decision. We emphasize the urgent need for compassionate and comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of homelessness, rather than punitive measures that perpetuate cycles of poverty and discrimination.”
–Terra Russell-Slavin, Chief Impact Officer, Los Angeles LGBT Center
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About the Los Angeles LGBT Center
Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed, and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center’s nearly 800 employees provide services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services, and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy. We are an unstoppable force in the fight against bigotry and the struggle to build a better world; a world in which LGBT people thrive as healthy, equal, and complete members of society. Learn more at lalgbtcenter.org.