Public Housing Evictions

Father Gregory Boyle (“Feeling Superior Is No Solution,” Commentary, May 2) articulated well the difficulties faced by the inner-city poor. Surely all of us living on our middle-class islands are due some soul-searching. Empathy and understanding for those less fortunate than we are do seem to be waning. But to criticize President Clinton’s signing of the “one strike and you’re out” order for public housing doesn’t make sense.

Evicting an entire family from public housing for the illegal activity of one member may seem harsh, but what of those who may benefit? Does this order not give hope to those neighbors who must live among criminals and criminal activities that conditions could improve? Does it not empower those who report criminal activity that a concrete justice will be achieved? Does it not stigmatize a behavior that would perhaps be ignored, tolerated or even protected by family members? This is a real way to improve conditions for the poor who want to exist with dignity.

Father Boyle is right when he speaks of the “roots” of poverty and the hopelessness that it perpetuates. But he must realize a government bureaucracy can do nothing for this problem. With the existence of welfare, public housing and food stamps could he possibly concede that the government is doing what it can?

The only way conditions will improve for the poor will be through the vigilance of that community.

AARON A. AGAJANIAN

Venice