Protect the Civil Rights of the Unhoused and Mentally Ill

The Trump administration's executive order on "Ending Crime and Disorder on America's Streets" promotes the involuntary civil commitment of unhoused individuals and those with substance abuse or mental health issues. This heavy-handed approach violates civil rights, fails to address root causes like lack of affordable housing, and could overwhelm underfunded mental health systems. Instead of unjust punishment, we should prioritize data-driven, humane programs that provide support services and pathways to stable housing. Forcibly institutionalizing vulnerable populations is a misguided and harmful solution that will only exacerbate existing crises. I urge you to reject implementation of this order in favor of more effective, rights-respecting policies.