Opinion: Homelessness won’t be eradicated until we address the root causes of economic inequality

Sustainable Development Goals and Homelessness in San Diego

Introduction

Gallo and Mori, graduate students of social work at the University of Southern California, residing in Los Angeles and San Diego respectively, were shocked by the recent revelation that homelessness in the city of San Diego had increased by a staggering 32 percent from 2021 to 2022. This alarming statistic highlights the extreme economic inequality that plagues America and calls for urgent action to address the root causes of homelessness.

The Myth of Blaming Homeless Individuals

It is essential to debunk the myth that blames homeless individuals for their predicament. Society often portrays them as lazy or having made bad choices, with mental health issues or substance addictions. However, these assumptions only scratch the surface and fail to address the underlying reasons for their homelessness. It is time to recognize that economic inequality plays a significant role in the surge of homelessness and take collective responsibility to confront this issue.

Economic Inequality and Homelessness

Economic inequality refers to the uneven distribution of wealth, resources, and opportunities within a society, resulting in disparities in income, assets, and access to essential services. Inadequate social support systems, high housing costs, and poverty are often attributed to homelessness. However, the foundations of homelessness lie in the profound economic inequality that exists in America.

The Need for Comprehensive Solutions

While addressing immediate public safety concerns related to homeless encampments is crucial, it is equally important to tackle the systemic issues driving individuals onto the streets. Merely implementing ordinances that prohibit camping on public property does not provide a comprehensive solution to homelessness. To truly combat homelessness, San Diego must prioritize comprehensive measures that target economic inequality and address the root causes of this crisis.

Proposed Solution: Equal Taxation for Social Security

One proposed solution to mitigate extreme economic inequality is to establish an equal ratio of tax liability for the Social Security system. Currently, individuals contribute 6.2 percent of their paycheck towards Social Security, with a cap on taxable income at $160,200. This means that those earning higher incomes pay a disproportionately lower percentage towards the system. Implementing a proportional tax rate across all income levels could generate sufficient funds to prevent the depletion of the Social Security trust fund by 2033 and potentially address other pressing issues such as mental health and homelessness.

Conclusion

The surge in homelessness in San Diego is a stark reflection of extreme economic inequality. While sporadic acts of kindness, such as providing meals and donations, are commendable, they fall short of addressing the root issue. To effectively combat homelessness, it is imperative to prioritize comprehensive solutions that target economic inequality and work towards a society where homelessness is eradicated. By aligning efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, San Diego can strive towards a more equitable future for all.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. SDG 1: No Poverty

   • Target 1.1: By 2030, eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere.
   • Indicator 1.2.2: Proportion of men, women, and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions.

2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

   • Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one-third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being.
   • Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease.
   • Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate.
   • Indicator 3.4.3: Percentage of the population with depression or anxiety disorder.
   • Indicator 3.4.4: Alcohol consumption per capita (15+ years old).

3. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

   • Target 10.1: By 2030, progressively achieve and sustain income growth of the bottom 40 percent of the population at a rate higher than the national average.
   • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
   • Indicator 10.1.1: Growth rates of household expenditure or income per capita among the bottom 40 percent of the population and the total population.
   • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income.

Analysis

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The SDGs addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article are SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets identified are:

– Target 1.1: Eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere.

– Target 3.4: Reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases and promote mental health and well-being.

– Target 10.1: Achieve and sustain income growth of the bottom 40 percent of the population at a rate higher than the national average.

– Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:

– Indicator 1.2.2: Proportion of men, women, and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions.

– Indicator 3.4.1: Mortality rate attributed to cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory disease.

– Indicator 3.4.2: Suicide mortality rate.

– Indicator 3.4.3: Percentage of the population with depression or anxiety disorder.

– Indicator 3.4.4: Alcohol consumption per capita (15+ years old).

– Indicator 10.1.1: Growth rates of household expenditure or income per capita among the bottom 40 percent of the population and the total population.

– Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 percent of median income.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: sandiegouniontribune.com

Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.