Implement Housing First model, stop encampment sweeps in Atlanta.

As members of the community, we are writing to express our deep concern regarding the recent clearance of encampments of unhoused individuals in Atlanta, particularly the one near Pryor Street. The displacement of unhoused individuals without providing adequate housing solutions is unacceptable and violates basic human rights. The city's current approach of sweeping camps and offering temporary shelter space fails to address the root causes of lack of housing. This cycle of displacement only exacerbates the trauma and hardship faced by those experiencing lack of housing. The tragic death of Cornelius Taylor during a previous camp sweep serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of such inhumane practices. Furthermore, we call for an immediate moratorium on encampment sweeps until a comprehensive, compassionate, and sustainable plan is developed in collaboration with advocates for unhoused people and those with lived experiences of lack of housing. Displacing vulnerable people without offering genuine housing alternatives is counterproductive and perpetuates the cycle of poverty and lack of housing. We understand the complexities involved, but we must prioritize the well-being and basic rights of our fellow citizens over any perceived inconvenience or stigma associated with lack of housing. It is our moral obligation to provide safe, dignified living conditions for all members of our community. We implore you to act swiftly and decisively to implement housing-focused solutions that uphold the principles of human rights and social justice. The current approach is neither sustainable nor ethical, and it is time for a fundamental shift in how we address lack of housing in Atlanta.