THE EMPATHY IMPERATIVE - ADDRESSING AMERICA'S HOMELESSNESS CRISIS SERIES:

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Homelessness is a human and societal failure that demands shared responsibility — not judgment. It reflects how easily we turn away from suffering we no longer see. In his interview and opinion commentary, Dr. Brian Klausner calls for renewed urgency, compassion, and reform to address the complex realities behind this national crisis.

THE EMPATHY IMPERATIVE - ADDRESSING AMERICA'S HOMELESSNESS CRISIS SERIES:

Why does chronic homelessness persist despite billions in healthcare spending? Matt Nathan, ALI ’20, interviews Dr. Brian Klausner about his new book, In the Gaps:Better Understanding the Expensive Human Suffering of Chronic Homelessness examining how trauma, inequality, and dehumanization fuel the crisis. Klausner’s insights reveal how empathy, data, and innovative care models can drive real, lasting solutions.

THE EMPATHY IMPERATIVE - ADDRESSING AMERICA'S HOMELESSNESS CRISIS SERIES:

OPINION COMMENTARY:

Homelessness is one of America’s most urgent — and expensive — public health crises. In this powerful reflection, Dr. Brian Klausner shares what decades of caring for unhoused patients have taught him about empathy, policy, and humanity — and why solving chronic homelessness requires community collaboration, data-driven care, and compassion.

Former federal judges Robert Cindrich and Paul Michel launched the Article III Coalition to defend judicial independence amid rising threats and attacks. With bipartisan support, they aim to protect courts, uphold the rule of law, and educate the public on why judges matter.

The recent replacement of the entire CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) raises serious public health concerns, as explored in this interview with infectious disease expert, Dr. Camille Kotton, former ACIP member, by Tom Mahoney (ALI ’24).

Dr. Katherine Koh and Michael Jellison from Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program share urgent insights on rising homelessness and the power of peer-led street teams in this compelling discussion with ALI Fellows Martin Goldstein and Matt Nathan.

Harvard’s Cass Sunstein unpacks climate justice, global responsibility, and what rich nations owe the future in this powerful conversation with ALI’s Keith Forman.

We must restore biodiversity in our neighborhoods. Christopher Brown, in an interview with ALI Fellow Tony Mohr ’21, shares how anyone can help “rewild” urban spaces – even junkyards and industrial zones.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

The Midwest is often overlooked for its cultural influence and electoral power. ALI Fellow Katie Kwo Gerson ’25 proposes a national initiative to elevate Midwestern voices and bridge America's cultural divides.

The transition to a sustainable economy is inevitable, but its timing and equity are uncertain, warns David Blood, Generation Investment Management, in a discussion with ALI Fellow Emily Chien. The finance community must lead and create the circumstances to achieve a sustainable economy and society.

Plastic pollution threatens marine ecosystems and coastal communities. Harvard ALI Impact Leader-in-Residence Monty Simus 2023 highlights The Ocean Cleanup’s initiative in Kingston Harbour, Jamaica, and outlines recommendations for community-led, climate-resilient, circular solutions worldwide.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

As climate finance lags behind global needs, the untapped potential of $950 billion in idle Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) could be transformative. Rajan Mehta, Harvard ALI Fellow 2022, explores how rethinking SDR use might unlock new funding for climate action and carbon removal.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

This year’s January 6 Joint Session of Congress to count electoral votes seemed uncontroversial. However, ALI Fellow Rex VanMiddlesworth examines how Congress quietly made a critical decision about the counting of electoral votes that may have a much larger impact in future presidential elections.

Wildfires, floods, and heat waves are intensifying, yet the failure to plan for climate extremes will result in mounting losses and crises. Alice Hill, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, argues that resilience starts with clear communication, forward-looking policies, and tough decisions.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

Despite a national mental health crisis, access to care remains a significant challenge, particularly in underserved areas. The PSYPACT initiative offers a crucial solution, enabling licensed psychologists to provide telehealth and temporary in-person services across state lines. Virginia Gleason, ALI Fellow ’22, examines the urgent need for the eight states and three U.S. territories still restricting access to vital mental health care.

How can businesses integrate human rights and sustainability into their core operations? Former German Human Rights Commissioner Markus Löning shares insights on the EU’s game-changing directive and discusses the journey towards corporate accountability in an exclusive interview by Mattias Bosch, ALI Fellow ’23.

ALI Fellow Elliot Davis '22 explores Poet Laureate Ada Limón's groundbreaking project, You Are Here: Poetry in Parks. Launched at Cape Cod’s National Seashore, this initiative brings poetry to public spaces in seven national parks, merging words with nature to inspire creativity, reflection, and a deeper bond with our planet.

Corporate sustainability faces a crossroads amid political backlash against diversity and climate initiatives. A Trump return could roll back progressive policies, but market forces may resist. The key question: Will sustainability falter, or will global corporate leaders and financial markets continue to drive it forward, recognizing its strategic business value, especially in tackling climate change?

In 2023, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, led by Dr. Va Lecia Adams Kellum and Mayor Karen Bass, exceeded their goal of rehousing 17,000 people — bringing over 21,000 indoors. ALI Fellows Belinda Juran ‘20 and Paige Warren ‘21 interview Dr. Adams Kellum to explore how innovative programs like Inside Safe and master leasing, fueled by unified government efforts, are transforming the fight against homelessness in Los Angeles.

OPINION COMMENTARY:

As corporate America faces pushback on diversity efforts, the Global Black Economic Forum (GBEF) leads the charge for change. President and CEO Alfonso David outlines how reshaping economic opportunities and strengthening democracy for marginalized communities fosters inclusive growth and safeguards democratic values in the face of global challenges.