Montpelier activist Morgan Brown shares poignant poems on homelessness and human empathy

During the Vermont House of Representatives session on January 18, 2024, a poignant moment unfolded as Morgan Brown, a retired advocate and activist from Montpelier, shared two impactful poems addressing the pressing issue of homelessness. Brown, who has firsthand experience with housing insecurity, emphasized the need for empathy and understanding towards those facing such challenges.

The first poem, titled "Homeless Sneakers," reflects the struggles of individuals who find themselves without stable housing. It poignantly describes the mental and emotional turmoil of living in uncertainty, where a pair of worn-out sneakers symbolizes the harsh reality of homelessness. Brown's words highlight that true remedy lies not in material possessions but in securing a permanent place to call home.

The second poem, "In Lieu of Flowers, Remember and Care for the Living," serves as a powerful reminder of the urgency to care for those who are unhoused. Brown critiques society's tendency to remember individuals only after they have suffered tragic fates, urging listeners to show compassion and support while they are still alive. He calls for a collective responsibility to treat one another with kindness, echoing sentiments shared by a former unhoused individual during a recent homelessness vigil.

These heartfelt contributions from Brown not only shed light on the struggles of the unhoused but also serve as a call to action for the community to foster a culture of care and empathy. The session underscored the importance of addressing housing insecurity and the need for ongoing dialogue and support for vulnerable populations in Vermont.