Activists Decry Kansas City 'Discriminatory' Bus Bench Removal

Amid this season of hope . . . We share a quick review of a controversial policy and how activists are pushing back in this fight over street space . . . Check-it:

"The reasons behind these bench removals, whether last year or more recently, expose a clear pattern of discrimination against unhoused people and less able-bodied community members. KCPD claims benches are ‘prone to loitering’ and justifies their removal through ‘Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED)’—sanitized language for what’s really anti-poor hostile architecture designed to exclude unhoused people from public space.

"Put simply, the removal of the benches targets unhoused individuals who are often left with no other choice–due to lack of social housing and other resources–but to use the benches as a rest stop or place to sleep. KCPD weaponizes policy language such as “loitering” to impose punitive measures on an already suffering and oppressed community."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

KCATA and KCPD are Forcing Discomfort over Dignity for Community Bus Riders - The Kansas City Defender

KCATA and KCPD come under scrutiny for removing public benches at bus stops, sparking criticism for undermining community efforts.