A couple days ago two of us from #TheSidewalkProject visited the subterranean homes of the Vegas #houselesscommunity. We began our journey with a long conversation with the “family” that lives at the mouth of the the storm tunnels under the Las Vegas Strip, after entering through a tarp calling out, “Knock knock!” We spent time sharing food, water, stories and ideas about culture, politics, human rights and their plight. They allowed us to pass through and explore their homes and secret underworld. We saw how they lived. Their beds, books and personal items stashed in little nooks along the concrete corridors. We walked through craggy, dark, tunnels and gazed at vibrant graffiti art, glowing under city grates, framed by trickling water, pebbles and mangled remnants of people’s beds and favorite things, piled against support beams, wreckage from the last rain. The luminous art cavern was so beautiful it made me cry. When we re-emerged, they gave us gifts. Intricate floral designs made from tender, wet shoots that dried into reedy forms I’ll cherish till they crumble. I was so touched by their warmth. They gave us so much respect. It’s something we see over and over with #Sidewalkproject It’s what we want for those we serve. Respect. Fuck that. We want that for everyone! All human life is just that, human life. It’s simple. All people. ALL PEOPLE: must be treated equally regardless of circumstances, choices, or conditions. Life is sacred. The houseless community needs to be offered dignity, respect and kindness. Drug use, mental illness or poverty is not an excuse for oppression or disrespect. We’re making plans to come back to Vegas. Look forward to visiting our new friends again. #houselessnothomeless #vegassidewalkproject #nohumansweeps #houselessrights
