Native America Calling: Cities take aim at homeless encampments

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Native America Calling: Cities take aim at homeless encampments

Thursday, June 12, 2025

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Cities take aim at homeless encampments

The city of Anchorage, Alaska, plans to clear a large encampment of homeless people at a park in mid-June following years of complaints and public safety problems.

The park has seen two fatal shootings and a large fire in recent months. The city’s move is one of dozens of encampment “abatements” around the country following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that allows such law enforcement actions.

Some cities have multi-pronged strategies to help homeless residents further displaced when officials clear encampments. Tune into Native America Calling to explore where solutions may lie in the balance between compassion and public safety.

Guests on Native America Calling

Jim LaBelle (Iñupiaq), member of the Anchorage Native Community Council in Alaska

James Lovell (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians), chief community development officer for the Chief Seattle Club in Seattle, Washington

Rene’ Williams (Colville), director of strategic initiatives for the California Native Vote Project

Reva Stewart (Diné), owner of Shush Diné Native Shop, founder of Stolen People, Stolen Benefits, and founder of Turtle Island Women Warriors