Sometime today, the Governor of Florida is supposed to announce his candidacy for the office of President of the United States. The power and privilege of the office will be the result of being elected. Meanwhile in Sarasota, Florida, there is a family of 6, 2 adults and 4 children, who are being evicted come June 30th from their home. A home that has numerous health code violations. A home where the landlord has refused to repair the unsanitary conditions. The other side of Florida, poverty and hopelessness. Whereas the Governor represents wealth and privilege; the family of 6 represents despair, hopelessness, and the struggle to just find clean, decent, affordable housing in Florida.
The governor of Florida seems focused on fighting back against social forces in this country. Rather than initiating a discussion with those parties, it's a war of divisive words. Some aspects of his concerns may be valid. But, why not have a discussion instead of fighting a war of words with people and businesses in Florida?
Why isn't the governor also concerned about the quality of life for all Floridians? I have seen no state program that attempts to help people find affordable housing in Florida. Is that a decision the governor has made that only those with a substantial income are welcomed in Florida? Why must a family of 6 tolerate unsanitary conditions in Florida? Why must landlords be given the authority to rule over tenants and then force tenants out? This family of 6 will be struggling to find an affordable home in Sarasota. The choices of where to go are choices no fans of the governor would ever accept.
So, as you get excited over the announcement the governor is making, should you not also feel disturbed that the governor is showing no compassion for those seeking affordable housing? He is not going after landlords who mistreat people. I contacted local media outlets about the story of the family of 6. So far the story has not been given any attention. This is the way of life in Florida. The weather forecast is more important than the living conditions of some people. What can you do? Get your education and obtain a job that gives you economic power where the lack of compassion by elected officials does not matter. Your own economic power will be your way of keeping you and your family in decent living conditions.
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