Criminalizing poverty should not be an option. In Albuquerque, the enforcement of Ordinance O-26-14 results in $500 fines or 30-day jail sentences for people sitting on public sidewalks. This law that Mayor Keller would allowed to become law by waiting 10 days, effectively targets the unhoused/unsheltered population who have nowhere else to go. This ordinance, enacted under Mayor Tim Keller and introduced by Councilor Joaquin Baca, unjustly penalizes individuals who are already facing immense challenges and hardships, particularly those dealing with mental health and medical issues. Rather than providing support and dignified solutions, this law contributes to a cycle of punishment and desperation.

Albuquerque's extreme temperatures pose life-threatening risks to those living on its streets, with the harsh heat exacerbating the vulnerability of our homeless population. Instead of punishing them, we must address the root causes of homelessness and provide essential services including accessible shelter, healthcare, and mental health support. Implementing and enforcing the Sidewalk Ordinance without these indispensable resources endangers lives and fails to meet the city's moral and constitutional obligations.

It is crucial that Mayor Keller and the city council put a halt to the enforcement of this ordinance until comprehensive support systems are in place. Repealing this ordinance not only reflects compassion and common sense but also aligns with constitutional values that prioritize human dignity and the right to safety. Values Burqueños hold dear.

We urgently call upon Mayor Keller to lead with empathy and innovation, developing policies that address homelessness humanely and effectively. By prioritizing supportive measures over punitive ones, Albuquerque can become a model city that genuinely cares for all its residents.

Join us in demanding that the City of Albuquerque immediately repeals Ordinance O-26-14 or ceases its enforcement until actionable services are established. Your signature can be a voice for change, ensuring that we protect our most vulnerable citizens. Sign this petition to stand for justice and humanity in Albuquerque.