An article from the Portland Orient, September 21, 2002. Page 11

To the Editor:

Thank God Portland is finally addressing the city’s homeless problem in a direct and effective manner. No more worrying about jobs or social services. No more worrying about what the “haves” should do for the “have-nots.” Ordinance 151 is a step in the right direction!

As we all know, the homeless are dirty, smelly, and mean. Why on earth should I feel any kind of obligation to someone who doesn’t bathe? And what if I want to buy a Panama hat at the Safari Traders Clothing Outlet? I sure don’t want to step over some bum sleeping on the doorstep!

I’m glad that the city has finally recognized that the homeless have too many rights. Are the homeless even true Americans? I mean, they barely BUY anything. How can we count them as fellow citizens if they’re not doing their part to support the growth of our fair city and nation? Show me a bum driving an SUV, and maybe I’ll have some sympathy for him.

The recent debate has reminded me of Jonathan Swift’s “Modest Proposal.” In the eighteenth century, as Swift realized, England had a problem. There were too many poor people having babies. In a stroke of genius, Swift proposed that the babies be used as food. His “modest proposal” made history. He looked at the problem with clear eyes and then offered a solution that suited everyone’s needs. Kudos to the City of Portland for following the spirit of his example.

Sincerely,

Danny Gonzales
Junior
History major

Back