On the 18th day of March, 2024, I, Mustafa El Shabazz Bey and my comrad Ms. Caletta Harris (Director and Producer of the Documentary NO ADDRESS (Columbia, SC), which can be found on TUBI) attended a luncheon that was hosted by Daniel J. Rickenmann, Mayor of Columbia (hereinafter named "Respondent")... The Respondent spoke on his vision and the City's plans to acquire CRAFT FARROW STATE HOSPITAL, STATE PARK CORRECTIONAL CENTER and the SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH (WELL PATH) a prison type complex, which are all located on 7901 Farrow Rd; Columbia, SC 29203. In response, my comrad and I asked the Respondent if he and the City would be willing to collaborate with the Social Servicemen and women who provide services to the people of Columbia who are unsheltered. We also inquired if he would consider alternative properties that might house more unsheltered people quicker than it would developing the prison complex in their proposed plan. In response, the Respondent agreed to work closely with Us and allow Us the time and opportunity to present a better plan of action before proceeding to acquire the abovesaid property, but not too long after this agreement, the Respondent attempted to secretly acquire the above stated property without informing the public of the City's plan and therefore, once again, intentionally neglected to involve We, the People, in on decisions that affect the lives of every individual either unsheltered or in service. Fortunately, the Respondent was unable to purchase or acquire the complex, (please see:  https://www.thestate.com/news/local/article288432031.html and https://www.postandcourier.com/columbia/homelessness-columbia-mayor-rickenmann-richland-northcolumbia/article_fef57c56-145b-11ef-85e0-8f60653993f3.html...

On the 27th day of June, 2024; the Respondent organized a PUBLIC INPUT SESSION and extended an invitation to all social service organizations. We attended with the epectation that We would be given an opportunity to provide input to the City Council members, as was initially agreed upon. However, when We arrived, it was clear that We would NOT be given an opportunity to speak. Instead, We were told that the session was intended to inform the public of the plan of action. We were directed to give Our feedback on a webpage by scanning a QR Code on a piece of paper. My comrad and I were able to present a packet to the Respondent which consists of Our plans of action of alternative housing with supporting documents to show the benefits of other alternative shelter options.

We, the People of Columbia, do NOT agree with the Respondents plan (view this link for more information: https://www.thestate.com/news/local/article289359750.html) and are seeking to build a solid network of people who will advocate on behalf of ALL people who are neglected and unsheltered. We ask that you sign and share this petition to support Our fight to end the criminalization of homelessness and demand that the Respondent work with Us, so more people can receive shelter within the City's limits and have better access to the resources available that have been servicing the needs of the people for years. We will continue to keep you updated as the events unfold and will hold accountable anyone who neglects their official duties to serve and protect all citizens of Columbia, especially if  their actions endangers the well being and/or life of the unsheltered population. Thank you in advance for your support, We look forward to hearing from you, Peace and Love ❤️

Mustafa El Shabazz Bey 🫡