The DC Council takes the first of two votes on DC’s budget on July 20th. That means we have just under 2 weeks to demand that the Council close the $66 million gap left in Mayor Bowser’s proposed budget needed to end chronic homelessness. Without further action from the Council, over 2,300 households will continue to experience chronic homelessness for at least another year.
Allowing thousands of our neighbors to continue to live without housing in a city with a budget of over $17 billion is unacceptable. That’s why we need your help to ensure housing justice is a top priority for our elected officials.
Here are 5 things you can do RIGHT NOW to push the DC Council to end chronic homelessness.
With just a few clicks, you can email your 5 representatives on the DC Council (your ward Councilmember, DC’s four at-large Councilmembers, and the Council Chair) and tell them to invest an additional $66 million to end chronic homelessness for 2,300 additional households. Click here to send them an email.
2. Tell the DC Council to fund housing, not evictions of homeless encampments
We’re alarmed to see that DC has resumed the practice of evicting people from homeless encampments. Clearing encampments does nothing to end homelessness and, even worse, it further traumatizes people who rely on tents for privacy, safety, and protection from the elements. Please sign our petition calling on DC officials to stop encampment evictions and to fund housing that ends homelessness.
3. RSVP to our July 13th virtual concert and action to end chronic homelessness
Join us for a virtual gathering of our partner organizations and supporters for live music, a conversation about the Mayor’s FY22 budget proposal, and learn how you can help increase investments in ending homelessness here in DC. Right now the FY22 Budget is in the hands of the DC Council and we know that a moral budget is one that puts housing and other basic human needs first. Join us on Tuesday, 7/13 to gather in support of housing justice. This virtual event will also feature local musician Emma G! The Zoom link will be provided upon registration.
4. Raise your voice for tax justice!
This year, the DC Council faces an important choice: continue the status quo of DC’s homeless crisis, or boldly increase funding to end chronic homelessness. We’re asking the DC Council to slightly increase taxes on individuals earning over $250,000 to fund proven programs to end homelessness. We know that 80% of DC residents support this moral choice, but the Council is not yet convinced. Click here to email the DC Council to tell them that there is no racial justice or housing justice without tax justice.
5. Save the date for a memorial action
Join us on July 18th from 5:30-6:30 pm for a memorial action for a neighbor who died without housing. More information is forthcoming.
In thanks,
The Way Home Campaign
P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on twitter, instagram, and facebook for campaign updates, action alerts, and more!
