o... where do we go from here? At this point it seems fitting to not only illustrate how imperfect              and, at times, reasonably self-centered we can all be, but also how stereotypes play a role in                how we think about homeless people. No? You think you seldom judge others based on how they look, rarely mistakenly judging someone based on their appearance, ultimately seeing everyone in the image of God through one set of accepting eyes? Take professor or hobo quiz! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This quiz, while a little outdated in its terminology, illustrates a powerful message: stereotypes do not and should not define us. As cliche as it sounds, we all need reminders that people's stigmatic impression should not limit how we view them. Unfortunately, factors like facial hair, age, baldness, and wardrobe caused me to get a 7/10 on the quiz.

 

Older professors and homeless people often look similar to one another and share similar stereotypes. While this quiz may seem light and funny, it remains problematic and sad that professors and individuals experiencing poverty are stereotyped and unfairly judged based on their appearance. We need to be better. 

 

            aybe you're on board and are ready to go out into the streets and shout: "Yeah! Enough with                the stereotypes, the stigmas, the labels, the pigeonholing. Let's end homelessness!" Maybe                you can acknowledge that stereotypes are wrong, but that you also think stereotypes are simply a part of human nature and that it isn't the end of the world if we judge here and there. 

 

Stereotypes directly affect our willingness and eagerness to help, which in turn catalyzes homelessness, therefore creating a bigger divide between the homeless and the rest of the population. Yes, it's one of those vicious cycles.