Homelessness In Social Media

855 Words4 Pages

Introduction
While browsing through social media, one comes across a variety of interesting things, to say the least. Whether they are memes about Trump's hideous tan, or furious tweets about how bad the new Snapchat update is, numerous topics are depicted through our phone or computer screens, so much so, that usually they are not given any second thought, as we continue to keep scrolling. One topic that is very prevalent in social media today is homelessness. Whether it is people spreading awareness, or some posting memes about how Kanye West's clothing line "Yeezy" resembles their clothes, it is unavoidable, and much of it is very inappropriate as it reinforces current stereotypes around the issue of homelessness. This assignment consists …show more content…

Not only does this controversial tweet fail to consider the numerous reasons why anyone can become or is homeless, it also does not take the true definition of homelessness into account either. Homelessness is defined as "something anyone experiences that are without a permanent, stable, or appropriate housing, or means and ability of obtaining it. It can result from societal barriers, individual/household's financial, mental, cognitive, behavioural or physical challenges, and/or racism and discrimination" (Canadian Observatory on Homelessness, 2012). Yes, societal barriers like racism and discrimination play a huge role in the issue, but they are not the only factors of homelessness. Factors such as mental illness, addiction, and disability are all examples that do not depend on the colour of someone's skin as anyone can experience these, sometimes even simultaneously. Although certain groups are definitely at a disadvantage because of their appearance in today's society, that does not mean people in the more privileged group are immune to homelessness …show more content…

This video is supported by the fact that "hate crimes against the homeless community is a growing wave in need of public attention." (National homeless, 2010) This video has around 160,000 views and counting, and this is great because it has the power to inform people who may not know or think about the abuse that homeless people face and get in check with reality, since it highlights a number of issues from robbery to potential