Rhode Island takes the lead on homeless rights

Rhode Island is doing something no other state in the nation has been willing to do: guarantee the rights of its homeless population. According to an Associated Press brief in The New York Times, the "Homeless Bill of Rights," which is expected to be signed into law by Gov. Lincoln Chafee,

would guarantee a person the right to use public sidewalks, parks and transportation as well as public buildings “without discrimination on the basis of his or her housing status.” It also guarantees a “reasonable expectation of privacy” with respect to personal belongings.

Thanks to Michael Redmond for the headsup on this story.

The Tent City Project is an artistic look at human rights issues facing residents of a homeless camp in Lakewood, NJ and its connection to the growing number of tent cities across the country. See our Facebook page for more information -- and don't forget to "Like" us.