In my years as Lead Case Manager with Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada, I witnessed firsthand the heartbreaking mistreatment of homeless individuals in Clark County. I learned quickly that so many people are ignored and mistreated, not because of anything they did, but simply due to their lack of housing and socioeconomic struggles. Determined to make a difference, I founded the Brightday Institute and took it upon myself to experience life through their eyes. For the past two years, I have gone undercover as a homeless person, walking among them, listening to their stories, and feeling their pain. This experience has fueled my passion to advocate for change in our community.

In Clark County, the absence of a comprehensive Homeless Bill of Rights leaves our homeless population vulnerable to discrimination and neglect. Around 5,000 individuals experience homelessness on any given night across Southern Nevada, according to the Southern Nevada Homeless Census. This is an urgent issue that calls for immediate action. By adopting a Homeless Bill of Rights and adding socio-economic status, including homelessness, as a protected class, we can ensure that everyone in Clark County is treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their housing situation.

The reality is stark: people experiencing homelessness often face barriers to basic services and legal protections due to systemic prejudice. They are routinely denied access to safe housing, healthcare, employment opportunities, and often subjected to unjust treatment—all because of their socio-economic status. This systemic discrimination must end.

The Homeless Bill of Rights we propose includes essential protections that prevent discrimination in housing, employment, and public services. It promotes equal treatment and access to necessary amenities and legal rights. It also underscores the importance of respecting the personal property and personal privacy of homeless people.

Let's work together to uplift and protect the most vulnerable members of our community. We can no longer stand by while our neighbors are marginalized due to circumstances beyond their control. Our local government should acknowledge the struggles of the homeless population and offer them the protection they so rightfully deserve.

We urge the Clark County Commission to take decisive action and adopt this comprehensive Homeless Bill of Rights. Join me in demanding justice and equality for all. Sign this petition and help drive the change that is so desperately needed.

Help start local, with the hope that someday it will go national.