More Compassion, Less Stigmatization: Rev. Susan Eagle's Call to Action for Barrie's Homeless

During the May 31 protest at #Barrie City Hall, Rev. Susan Eagle of Grace United Church, a member of the Barrie Homelessness and Housing Justice Network (BHHJN), expressed concerns about the May 17 city council motion aimed at addressing homelessness. 

Despite the council's apparent support to end homelessness, the motion includes elements that Eagle said “are very harmful and hurtful“ such as preventing people from giving food, water, and shelter materials to those on public lands. She called for a community effort in aiding the homeless, rather than isolating them.

The motion includes an $825,000 commitment, but Eagle emphasizes the need for a bigger, holistic plan rather than focusing on this sum alone. She suggested the council should aim to build the capacity of the community to provide support and plans for those in need.

When asked about the idea of relocating homeless individuals to other communities, Eagle disagreed with this approach. “I'm not from Barrie,“ she said. ”I moved here 10 years ago.” She stated that every community has its own challenges with homelessness, and that the solution lies in addressing the systemic issues that lead to poverty and homelessness.

Finally, Eagle called out the negative stereotypes and fear-mongering associated with homelessness during the May 17 City Council meeting. “There was a lot of stereotyping of people who were homeless and a lot of them was fallacious. And it was fear mongering.”

She encouraged the Council to engage in constructive efforts to understand and assist the homeless population, rather than stigmatizing them or blaming them for broader societal issues. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relationships and mutual respect with the homeless in her community.