TRENTON – Housing and homelessness advocates across New Jersey are outraged at the recent on-air remarks made by Fox News host Brian Kilmeade suggesting that homeless people with mental illness should be put to death. The statement underscores the dangerous stigma that fuels hostility and violence toward people experiencing homelessness, including the tragic chokehold killing of Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old New Yorker who was unhoused and suffering from mental illness.

“Jordan Neely’s heartbreaking death was a direct result of the demonization of homelessness and stigmatized mental illness. Kilmeade’s words reflect a cruelty that has no place in public discourse and highlight why we urgently need to change the way our nation—and our state—responds to homelessness,” said Staci Berger, president and chief executive officer of the Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey. “We cannot allow cruelty and fearmongering to drive housing policy in NJ. We must put decency and dignity first.”

Advocates warn that New Jersey has not done nearly enough to prevent homelessness or protect renters at risk of eviction. Despite skyrocketing rents, the state has very limited protections in place to stop burdensome rent increases, and the cost of filing an eviction remains substantially lower than in neighboring states, making it far too easy for landlords to displace tenants. Legislation to increase the eviction filing fee and provide critical resources for the state’s eviction prevention programs, which are running out of funds.

They are calling on lawmakers to pass the Homeless Bill of Rights, sponsored by Senator Britnee N. Timberlake (D-Essex) and Assemblyman Reginald W. Atkins (D-Union). This legislation would prevent municipalities from criminalizing homelessness and ensure basic protections for people without homes.

“Housing is a human right, and we know what works: Housing First. With the right resources and support, people can rebuild their lives with dignity and stability,” said Taiisa Kelly, chief executive officer of Monarch Housing Associates and member of the Network’s Board of Directors. “New Jersey has the tools to lead with compassion by passing the Homeless Bill of Rights, strengthening renter protections, and investing in proven Housing First solutions. Every resident deserves the dignity of a safe, affordable home.”

The Network and its partners emphasize that New Jersey’s leaders must act now to expand housing protections, prevent evictions, and ensure stable housing opportunities for the thousands of households currently on the brink of homelessness.

About the Housing and Community Development Network of NJ
The Housing and Community Development Network of New Jersey is the statewide association of more than 270 community development corporations, individuals and other organizations that support the creation of affordable homes, economic opportunities, and strong communities. For more information on the Network, visit www.hcdnnj.org.