After selling his software business for millions, Marcel Lebrun decided to pour his time and money into an affordable housing project in Fredericton. CBC’s Harry Forestell takes a closer look at the 12 Neighbours community and its impact on the people who live there.

  • psvrh
    1013·
    8 months ago

    Because we can’t let poor people have dignity. A large part of our system is designed to punish poor people for being poor, and to make sure that they know it.

    I don’t think people realize how important hierarchy and order are to the wealthy. As a class, they’re so far above basic needs (food, shelter, security) that all that really matters is their station in the world. When you understand that, you’ll also understand why the wealthy are almost viscerally, psychotically opposed to anything the “flattens” society: public education, healthcare, social services. They’re quite happy to, eg, donate a hospital wing because it’s a grand gesture of their magnanimity, but if you ask them to pay the same in taxes they’ll kick and scream.

    If you just let poor people lead a life of quiet dignity… (shudder)

      • girlfreddy@sh.itjust.worksOPEnglish
        91·
        8 months ago

        I had to downsize to a bedroom last April and miss having my own kitchen and more space. I’d live in one of these in a heartbeat.

    • BCsven
      1·
      8 months ago

      This gives them immediate dignity. Address, wash and toilet facilities, a kitchen, and a safe place to sleep amd keep belongings. Just because a 200sqft house doesn’t look like a detached 2 story don’t take away their chance at living like a human. Heck non vulnerable people in Vanvouver pay huge rent for 200sq ft bicycle sheds.