In this special 30 minute, pre-event forum, the Toronto Public Library invites the public to share their thoughts, questions and personal stories to inform the forthcoming event with author Erin Dej on September 13th at 7pm.  

Professor Alison Smith will provide some context to the realities of homelessness in Canada by focusing on two key thoughts. 

First, Professor Smith will show how the understanding of the causes of homelessness has evolved considerably over time, moving from a focus on individual-level causes to more structural and systemic ones. 

Second, using contemporary and historic examples of tent cities and homeless encampments, Professor Smith will illustrate what these different definitions of homelessness mean in terms of policy responses to homelessness. 

Drop-in and share your opinion in this open forum and help shape the dialogue around homelessness in Canada. 

About the event's host:

This event is part of our On Civil Society series.

Generously supported in part by Chris M. Reid

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Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca

Civil Forum: A Complex Exile - Homelessness in Canada