Just Do It

Homeless Memorial Day

by Deesha Dyer

Thu., Dec. 20, 4:30 p.m., Dilworth Plaza, City Hall, Broad and Market streets, 215-523-9595, projecthome.org

While much attention has been devoted to the violence looming over Philly neighborhoods and schools, other human rights offenses have gone neglected. One prime example is the growing number of homeless and the casualties that result from the dehumanizing experience. Since 1990, on or around the first day of winter, the National Coalition for the Homeless has sponsored the National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day to remember the men, women and children who have died during the year as a result of not having a safe, permanent place to live.

"After many years of knowing persons that are homeless, have a mental illness or a drug addiction, I've been taught about human dignity," says Will O'Brien, special projects coordinator at Project H.O.M.E., which is helping to organize the Philadelphia vigil. "This event is making sure that people who have experienced homelessness are remembered, and this also serves as an affirmation of their humanity." Sponsored by more than 25 local partnering organizations, the service will include stories, readings and dancing. Religious leaders of Christian, Muslim and Jewish faiths will speak, as will City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell. Additionally, past and current homeless veterans will perform a flag ceremony.

The main focus of the evening will be a roll call of victims who have lost their lives in 2007. As of Dec. 12, that number stands at 64 and is expected to rise.