On January 12th, 2024, the Supreme Court of the United States announced that they would hear the case of Johnson v. Grants Pass, with oral arguments taking place in April 2024. This sets the stage for the most significant Supreme Court case about the rights of homeless people in decades. At its core, this case will decide whether cities are allowed to punish people for things like sleeping outside with a pillow or blanket, even when there are no safe shelter options.
Join this rapid response funder call on Wednesday, January 31 at 12pm ET / 11am CT / 10am MT / 9am PT to learn why this case is so important and about the long-lasting impacts SCOTUS’ decision, whether in favor of Johnson or against Johnson.
The first 30 minutes of this call will be an overview of Johnson v. Grants Pass and what impacts we can anticipate based on how SCOTUS rules. After 30 minutes, this call will transition into an active strategizing session on how philanthropy can support immediate needs leading up to a decision, such as a national messaging and power-building campaign, and what actions philanthropy can take beyond grantmaking.
Attendees who primarily want an overview of Johnson v. Grants Pass are welcome to attend for the first 30 minutes. The second half of this call will be geared toward funders who have the ability to support short and long-term narrative, advocacy, and power-building efforts.
Speakers
- Antonia Fasanelli, Executive Director, National Homelessness Law Center
- Jesse Rabinowitz, Communications and Campaign Director, National Homelessness Law Center
- Will Knight, Decriminalization Director, National Homelessness Law Center
- Lauren Bennett, Chief of External Affairs, Funders Together to End Homelessness (moderator)
