Name: Romy Kregsman

Social Justice Group: 2021-2022, Homelessness—Communities of Color and Children

Date of Fieldwork: January 31, 2022

Name of Organization and person (people) with whom you met and their title(s):Nicole McVinua from Urban Pathways(Director of Policy)

Type of Fieldwork: Interview

What I did and what I learned about my topic, activism, social justice work or civil and human rights work from this fieldwork?[:: :

On January 31st, my group was able to meet with Nicole McVinua. She works with Urban Pathways and is the Director of Policy there. She has been working than for more than 3 years.

Even though there are multiple causes of homelessness, Nicole told us the main reason. The main cause of homelessness really is affordable housing. The cost for living in New York City is extremely expensive. We are so lucky to have a roof over our heads because many others lose their shelter, get robbed, and are living on the street. We are afraid of them, and look down on them but need to help them and see them as people.

Talking to Nicole was an incredible experience for us. We learned so much and we’re really inspired by her. It was so great to talk with someone who has helped to make progress on this social issue and who educated us on the topic we are researching for our Social Justice Project.