On any given night in Atlanta, New York City, London or Chicago, there are thousands of people sleeping in the city’s streets. Rough sleeping is a risky decision — and is always the choice of the most desperate. But the way the government and our society have responded is unjustifiably hostile.

“Hostile design is design that intends to restrict freedom or somehow control a human being — be that homeless people, a skater or everyday humans congregating to enjoy themselves.” -Semple, Hyperallergic

The reality of hostile design is one of the most inhumane examples of commercialization being valued above individuals. It’s so quiet, so camouflaged, that unless we know what it is, we accept it. That blind acceptance has allowed for these structures to grow and spread across the globe. We need to be aware that our governments have been funding tens of millions of dollars to prevent human beings without the necessity of shelter from sleeping on public property. Money that could be spent on temporary residence and other necessities our homeless communities need.

These are designs against humanity, and they are hateful, depraved and unsympathetic. States are controlling human behavior, designing people out of cities. When we turn a blind eye, we invite hostile design. When we do that, we are announcing a resounding “You’re not welcome here” — with spikes.