So, the city council and gang are coming down on homeless Paul Braun.
Harassing an ill and disabled person for innocently trying to make his difficult life a bit better seems pretty heavy handed by the city staff. Paul is not aggressive nor does he do anything to intimidate passers by. He is simply trying to eke out a living in the best way he knows, often in very unpleasant weather conditions. I am sure the last thing he would want is to upset or obstruct folks who walk by. I have never seen him block or constrict the breezeway.
I support the noble cause of the Salvation Army jingling bells at various doorways at Christmas. As well, I support the noble cause of poppy sales at doorways and elsewhere and many others who solicit by similar means to make life a little better for our neighbours in need. Are Paul’s actions really different and aren’t they equally noble in that he harmlessly supports a cause to make his disabled life a wee bit better? His cause? Food, clothing and shelter. Should this innocent man in need be subjected to some court ordered punishment for innocently trying to make his life a little better?
The city wants him to relocate to Nanaimo Square. Why, if he is causing no disturbance to anyone? Dogs, bicycles and skateboards are a bigger nuisance. Paul avoids Nanaimo Square because it has a reputation of intimidation by people that hang out there. Then too, what about the merchants who, on sidewalks, put their clothing dollies, signs and other displays that take up no less room than Paul, yet causes people to step around them. I am not against all of this but let’s be fair, sensible and have a little tolerance for each other and especially those in need.
Sheldon Hansen
Penticton