A few days ago, a tenant on the East Side of Detroit was in the process of being evicted. The cops shot him and he died.
While reading over the article, cops say they were called to the scene of an eviction in progress. That was the first mistake. There was already a bailiff on the scene. Cops do not belong onsite during an eviction periodt, because they often add to the chaos. What happens next is a bit murky. Per the article, the man was upset and armed with some sort of weapon. The cops tased him but it did not work...and that's when he was shot and died.
In my numerous speaking opportunities, as well as my recent testimony to congress, I have stressed the importance of using humanity when dealing with these issues. People often look at me as if I'm a deer stuck in headlights. As if they have zero understanding of what I am talking about.
THIS INCIDENT IS an EXAMPLE of
WHAT IM TALKING ABOUT!!!
If anybody would have demonstrated a basic level of decency and respect, this person would likely still be alive today. In general, people usually have no regard for the poor, or indigent people. Don't believe me, next time consider how you respond to those who have financial challenges in your circle. Do you HELP or HURT? Even though I was not there on scene, I would bet no one there gave a second thought about their words, not to mention behavior towards this person. I can hear them now screaming...
GET OUT!!!
I've dealt with these landlords, attorneys, state officials, city officials, AND the cops .... and what I can tell you is they give zero fuks about people who are in these situations. NONE. Also, they usually assume the very worst about these people and demonstrate nothing but contempt, disregard and vile disrespect.
Do You Talk About the Poor, Needy or Homeless?
0%YES
0%NO
I'm curious to know, how far behind on the rent was this tenant? A month or two? Whatever amount was owed, it pales in comparison to the cost of a life. Here in Michigan and other states, if you are evicted you cannot rent anywhere for the next 7-10 years!! Knowing this information, its easy to assume, perhaps this person had nowhere to go? Not everyone has a support system or the means to just
' move on'. Besides, you gotta call CAM for months before they put you in a shelter. They may not ever find you anywhere to go.
Life doesn't just go on for those with limited or zero options.
My assumption is this tenant likely was depressed. Stressed out. Worried. Nowhere to go. No options. If you don't have a place to stay, you cannot get or keep a job. No job = No livihood or no ability to sustain.
What do you think
happens next?
The absence of emotion does not necessarily mean you are mentally healthy. Everyone gets overhwelemed, especially when their backs are up against the wall! This doesn't mean they are CRAZY. Any reasonable person should be able to comprehend and demonstrate basic compassion to this. How does tasering someone convey a message of safety or support???
There are NUMEROUS vacant houses left unkept, & unattended here in Detroit, that are not only an eye sore but a severe safety hazzard. If you are a Detroit resident, there is at least 2 dozens houses in this condition a few miles or less from your door step.
Why can't these places be given to the unhoused?
2. Why are landlords such in a rush to throw people out, rarher than work with people?
3. Why do they just leave their properties absconded in long term disarray?
PEOPLE OVER PROFITS!!
I wish WE ALL would consider the negative ramifications when we lack the ability to understand....
WE Should be OUTRAGED!!!
ORGANIZING!!
PROTESTING!!
But instead all we see is just another poor crazy person, who couldn't even pay their rent. 🤪
Shameful.
RDW
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