In summer 2024, the Supreme Court’s ruling in City of Grants Pass v. Johnson emboldened communities across the country to enact new measures that make sleeping in public spaces a legally punishable offense—effectively criminalizing homelessness. Now, on February 11th, the City of Fremont will vote on a new ordinance that imposes misdemeanor penalties of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail for anyone who “camps on public property,” whether or not shelter beds are available. This would effectively criminalize homelessness in the City of Fremont.
Please use the template we created to send an email to the Fremont City Council opposing this ordinance. We also urge you to attend the Fremont City Council meeting on Tuesday, February 11th at 7:00 PM at the Fremont City Council Chambers (3300 Capitol Avenue, Building A, Fremont, CA 94538) to provide in-person public comment on the ordinance. You can use the messaging included in the email template as talking points for your public comment.
We must speak out now and demand the Fremont City Council vote NO! on this cruel and ineffective measure that would criminalize homelessness and those who seek to support their unhoused neighbors.