Homeless camp bulldozing is disturbing

Thank you for the front page story (“Cedar Rapids homeless encampment bulldozed by city, Dec. 31) that tells us more about a Cedar Rapids homeless encampment, now gone. The photos are disturbing. Absurd and destructive.

The city's defense: " … the razing of homeless encampments are necessary for both sanitation and safety purposes.“ Another justification: " … beneficial to get them (people choosing to live at the encampment) on the right track."

Advocates for homeless "say forcing people into a shelter is not the answer for people who habitually live outdoors. It might be wise to ask the homeless what they need instead of assuming what they need, because you don't know.“

The photo of Reverend Gary Sneller, an advocate, hanging an American flag at his home, a flag "gifted" to him from the homeless community, is deeply moving. It moves me to visit willisdady.org and learn more.

Out of sight is not out of mind for people who deserve more dignity than to have their community bulldozed.

Gretchen Reeh-Robinson

Mount Vernon