My parents made sure that I learned respect. The educational trauma that the poor and homeless are going through is taking a real toll on this city. You can’t do without us, and you can’t do for us. The libraries in the city have turned their backs on their own. You push us out and as a society you are going to fail. I am speaking on the treatment that as a whole in this capital is very unequal.
We’re not your outcast, we’re somebody. In order to help in a positive way I need the same as you in any institution or business. We also need access to the Internet to learn and work. No matter how old or young, we come as any people: to learn. So why, when we’re near you, do you mistreat us? Am I not an American? Am I less than you because I am homeless or poor? Is it not true, as stated in the Declaration of Independence – that all men are created equal?
Why do the rights of men and women depend on their complexion? Do you think it is right to be judged and disrespected in any institution or place of business?
Libraries are a place where I have access to a computer; I am homeless and am trying to learn what is in this world so I can go on with my life. Without access to knowledge, as a human being, I would fall far behind. I should not feel uncomfortable and disrespected by public library staff. One more thing – it is wrong to put your millions against my nothing for your profits. This library is not just a library, it is a Memorial Library, please respect what it stands for. I wouldn’t open a car dealership in the front of the Jefferson memorial.
Respect, have some.
George Brown is an advocate working with Shelter, Housing and Respectful Change (SHARC).
