THE EMPATHY IMPERATIVE - ADDRESSING AMERICA'S HOMELESSNESS CRISIS SERIES:

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Homelessness is a human and societal failure that demands shared responsibility — not judgment. It reflects how easily we turn away from suffering we no longer see. In his interview and opinion commentary, Dr. Brian Klausner calls for renewed urgency, compassion, and reform to address the complex realities behind this national crisis.

THE EMPATHY IMPERATIVE - ADDRESSING AMERICA'S HOMELESSNESS CRISIS SERIES:

Why does chronic homelessness persist despite billions in healthcare spending? Matt Nathan, ALI ’20, interviews Dr. Brian Klausner about his new book, In the Gaps:Better Understanding the Expensive Human Suffering of Chronic Homelessness examining how trauma, inequality, and dehumanization fuel the crisis. Klausner’s insights reveal how empathy, data, and innovative care models can drive real, lasting solutions.

THE EMPATHY IMPERATIVE - ADDRESSING AMERICA'S HOMELESSNESS CRISIS SERIES:

OPINION COMMENTARY:

Homelessness is one of America’s most urgent — and expensive — public health crises. In this powerful reflection, Dr. Brian Klausner shares what decades of caring for unhoused patients have taught him about empathy, policy, and humanity — and why solving chronic homelessness requires community collaboration, data-driven care, and compassion.

Former federal judges Robert Cindrich and Paul Michel launched the Article III Coalition to defend judicial independence amid rising threats and attacks. With bipartisan support, they aim to protect courts, uphold the rule of law, and educate the public on why judges matter.

The recent replacement of the entire CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) raises serious public health concerns, as explored in this interview with infectious disease expert, Dr. Camille Kotton, former ACIP member, by Tom Mahoney (ALI ’24).

Dr. Katherine Koh and Michael Jellison from Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program share urgent insights on rising homelessness and the power of peer-led street teams in this compelling discussion with ALI Fellows Martin Goldstein and Matt Nathan.

We must restore biodiversity in our neighborhoods. Christopher Brown, in an interview with ALI Fellow Tony Mohr ’21, shares how anyone can help “rewild” urban spaces – even junkyards and industrial zones.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

The Midwest is often overlooked for its cultural influence and electoral power. ALI Fellow Katie Kwo Gerson ’25 proposes a national initiative to elevate Midwestern voices and bridge America's cultural divides.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

This year’s January 6 Joint Session of Congress to count electoral votes seemed uncontroversial. However, ALI Fellow Rex VanMiddlesworth examines how Congress quietly made a critical decision about the counting of electoral votes that may have a much larger impact in future presidential elections.

Wildfires, floods, and heat waves are intensifying, yet the failure to plan for climate extremes will result in mounting losses and crises. Alice Hill, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, argues that resilience starts with clear communication, forward-looking policies, and tough decisions.

How can businesses integrate human rights and sustainability into their core operations? Former German Human Rights Commissioner Markus Löning shares insights on the EU’s game-changing directive and discusses the journey towards corporate accountability in an exclusive interview by Mattias Bosch, ALI Fellow ’23.

In 2023, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, led by Dr. Va Lecia Adams Kellum and Mayor Karen Bass, exceeded their goal of rehousing 17,000 people — bringing over 21,000 indoors. ALI Fellows Belinda Juran ‘20 and Paige Warren ‘21 interview Dr. Adams Kellum to explore how innovative programs like Inside Safe and master leasing, fueled by unified government efforts, are transforming the fight against homelessness in Los Angeles.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

As corporate America faces pushback on diversity efforts, the Global Black Economic Forum (GBEF) leads the charge for change. President and CEO Alfonso David outlines how reshaping economic opportunities and strengthening democracy for marginalized communities fosters inclusive growth and safeguards democratic values in the face of global challenges.

From empowering independent candidates to safeguarding electoral processes, discover how two Harvard ALI Fellows — Maryfrances Metrick ’17 and Rex VanMiddlesworth ‘23 are tackling vulnerabilities and building resilience in American electoral systems.

Native American drama breathes life into the stories behind policy, illuminating realities of tribal sovereignty and the impact of federal laws on Indigenous lives. Antíkoni exemplifies how theatre can make these issues visible, encouraging audiences to understand, empathize, and carry these insights into conversations about justice and cultural respect.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

Your senator greets you with a smile and makes you feel so important that you contribute to his campaign, only to learn that he doesn’t need your money; he’s a shoo-in for re-election. John Carroll urges people to direct their giving to competitive political races and social missions that serve their local communities.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

The 2024 election will be consequential, and fortunately, it's easier and more important than ever to become involved. Rex VanMiddlesworth presents a number of ways to do so, from working the polls to joining campaigns.

Homelessness in the US persists due to a worsening housing shortage, rising housing costs, increased immigration levels, and the expiration of eviction protections. Jeff Olivet, head of Biden’s US Interagency Council on Homelessness, sees homelessness as a policy choice and highlights its solvability when collective action is taken.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

Cybercrime is a global threat, demanding enhanced international cooperation and protection of human rights. The UN is now negotiating a new cybercrime treaty. Lead US negotiator, Ambassador (Ret.) Deborah McCarthy, argues for the involvement of multi-stakeholders – private sector, civil society, NGOs, and academia – to help member states in crafting and implementing the treaty to more effectively combat global cybercrime while safeguarding freedoms.

Collaboration between academics and government agencies is essential for advancing our understanding of public policy issues. Noelwah Netusil and Marie Walkiewicz describe how to overcome barriers that can hinder these efforts and limit their effectiveness.