David Peery, the founder of MCARE and someone who has experienced homelessness in the past, explained that the sleepover was organized as a way to mark National Solidarity Week. This event is an initiative by the National Coalition for the Homeless and aims to raise awareness and show support for those who are unhoused.
Since October 2023, Miami Beach has been enforcing an ordinance that prohibits sleeping outdoors on public property. However, this enforcement has had a notable consequence: a significant rise in arrests among individuals who are experiencing homelessness. MCARE obtained data through a public records request, revealing that nearly 50% of all arrests in the city since then have involved homeless individuals. If found guilty of violating this law, offenders can face a prison term of up to 60 days and a fine of $500. As a result, taxpayers could potentially bear a cost of up to $17,580 for each arrest. Interestingly, the yearly average cost of a studio apartment in Miami Beach exceeds $16,000.
According to Peery, these tactics are particularly racist in Miami, where 60% of the homeless population is Black.
According to Peery, the city of Miami Beach is regressing to its past as a racially discriminatory sundown town with its new ordinance that prohibits sleeping on public property. He argues that this effectively targets the homeless population, as they have nowhere else to sleep and are left with no alternative but to sleep on public property.
During the sleepover event, there was a significant presence of police, which Peery found to be excessive and intimidating. According to him, the Miami Beach Police Department established themselves in two areas near the park, with flashing lights encircling the protesters.
“He said it felt like the peaceful protest was met with an excessive display of force.”
Peery observed that, despite the close watch of the police, it seemed that the authorities had no plans to apprehend the participants. This suggested that their purpose was more centered around creating a sense of fear and intimidation than making arrests.
During the rally, Dr. Armen Henderson, the founder of Dade County Street Response, emphasized the dire circumstances that the unhoused community endures.
According to Peery, these events play a crucial role in fostering empathy, understanding, and compassion.