Homelessness and the Paradox of Welfare Austerity: Echoes from History in the Era of COVID-19

Abstract

ABSTRACT The scale of homelessness in the United States is a product of systematic political and economic restructuring. Austerity politics thrive in an environment that obscures these historical realities. Examining the devolution of homeless services not only illuminates the myriad paradoxes embedded in fiscal conservativism–it also provides a blueprint for reform. COVID-19 has only accentuated inequality and stirred social unrest. Nevertheless, these forces have failed to overturn entrenched power structures. As a necessity for sustaining life, a means of accumulating wealth, and inroads to social capital, housing is key to creating a more equitable post-COVID world.