Traverse City commissioners will consider approving a resolution tonight (Monday) recognizing the rights of people experiencing homelessness.

Adopted and recommended by the Traverse City Human Rights Commission, the resolution states that the "rights, privacy and property of those experiencing homelessness shall be adequately safeguarded under the policies of Traverse City." According to the document, every person experiencing homelessness should be able to "access basic requirements necessary for sustaining life, including shelter, sanitation, medical care, clothing and food," and to "move freely in public spaces in the same manner as other persons without harassment or intimidation." Other rights described in the resolution include having equal opportunities for employment, receiving emergency medical care, having personal information protected, exercising equal civic privileges (including the right to vote), receiving equal treatment from state/county/municipal agencies, and having a reasonable expectation of privacy related to personal property.

The Northwest Continuum of Care is also hoping to shine a spotlight on homelessness this month in honor of National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week (November 16- 24). The organization is sponsoring a public display of scenarios that might cause someone to become or stay homeless in the community. "Many are not aware of the variety of factors and events that play a part in members of our community being or becoming homeless," says Craig Kreger of Northwest Continuum of Care.

The display signs will be posted around the Grand Traverse County Civic Center’s outdoor walking path November 6-23.