Opinion

Our trees are dying where they stand

Artist and vendor Shuhratjon Ahmadjonov explains why trees are dying rapidly in D.C.

The dangers of blind faith in authority

Artist and vendor Jeffrey McNeil expresses his opinion about how the CDC and Biden administration is handling the pandemic, vaccination, and new masking guidelines.

Worried about the new 801 East Shelter

Street Sense vendor Wendell Williams expresses his worries over the 801 East Shelter being finished when promised.

‘Crystal Clear’: STAY DC rental assistance offers residents a limited-time opportunity for a financial fresh start

Street Sense Deputy Editor Gordon Chaffin shares his experience with the STAY DC emergency rent assistance program. He argues that D.C.’s program is failing by standing up too many hurdles for applicants to jump and shares quotes from local government officials who don’t seem to be following federal guidance for quick tenant help. Gordon asks everyone in D.C. struggling to pay back rent and utilities to apply at stay.dc.gov.

Street paper vendors of Tokyo share their thoughts on the Olympics

The Big Issue Japan asked some of its vendors to share their thoughts on the approaching Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and also their own personal sporting memories and achievements.

Don’t give up waiting for housing

Artist and vendor Ronald Smoot shares his story with homelessness, becoming a vendor at Street Sense, and finding housing.

Federal rental assistance for whom?

Artist/Vendor Donté Turner questions whether the District is using its resources fairly and equitably.

What’s the Big Problem with Voter IDs?

Artist/Vendor Jeffery McNeil shares opinions on why both parties should support voter identification requirements.

D.C. Council risks homelessness emergency if it doesn’t support those who suffered during the public health emergency

Amber W. Harding, an attorney for the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless, shares opinions on what DC must do to confront upcoming housing crises as COVID programs expire.

Why we can’t just defund the police

Artist/Vendor Ayub Abdul shares opinions on why the community and police need to collaborate to help right social justice and meet local needs.

Critical Race Theory is divisive and regressive

Artist/Vendor Jeffery McNeil provides views on Critical Race Theory.

Let’s get vaccinated

Artist/Vendor Sybil Taylor discusses experiences with getting vaccinated and offers opinions on why others should take the shot.

The eviction bans are ending. Here’s how rental assistance can help people stay in their homes.

Professor Carolyn Gallaher writes on what the end of COVID-19 eviction bans means and how other programs could fill the gap for those in need of assistance.

Feeling forced into the vaccine

Vendor Marcellus Phillips writes on his opinions concerning the COVID-19 vaccines.

The ugly brutality of prison sensory deprivation

Artist/Vendor Pierre Johnson offers some candid opinions on the state of the U.S. prison system.

A few notes on respect: How to ensure you’re treating a trans person with dignity

Phoenix Oaks, a vendor with Street Roots in Portland, Oregon, offers guidance on how to properly interact with transgender community members to better ensure everyone has basic respect.

Why it’s better to put people in charge who’ve experienced poverty

Stephen Lilienthal provides commentary on how placing those who have diverse life experience in power can make positive change.

Who is Franklin Square Park being renovated for?

Artist/Vendor Colly Dennis provides opinions on what the Franklin Square Park renovations means, as well as its impacts.

Ode to Franklin Square Park

Artist/Vendor Jackie Turner provides her opinion on the redevelopment of Franklin Park, with a hint of nostalgia.

The pandemic proves D.C. needs statehood now 

Rep. Oye I. Owolewa writes that the lessons learned from D.C.’s unequal treatment in receiving pandemic relief demonstrates the need for D.C. statehood is paramount.