Our Blog

Gain insights from our staff and partners on the latest in narrative research and grassroots communication. Hear stories from real people who have experienced homelessness and housing insecurity.

If you would like to share a story or unique insight into the housing crisis forcing so many of our neighbors into homelessness, reach out to us at info@housingnarrativelab.org.

Essentials for Transformative Narratives: Emphasize Root Causes of Homelessness

08/25/2023

Narrative plays an important role in building the public will to solve homelessness. Dominant narratives about people experiencing homelessness focus on individuals making bad personal decisions, which often lead to ineffective and dehumanizing “solutions” – like throwing out people’s tents, IDs, medications and what they need to survive. That’s why we’re working to build a […]

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Reflections on Empathy and Accuracy from the Media Impact Forum

06/22/2023

By Sarah Armour-Jones, Deputy Director San Francisco is the epicenter of a national debate about homelessness so it was a fitting place for Executive Director Marisol Bello to share her expertise and perspectives at the Media Impact Forum, hosted by Media Impact Funders earlier this month. The power of storytelling was a big theme throughout […]

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Check out our 2022-23 Impact Report

06/05/2023

At Housing Narrative Lab, we know we cannot move policies until we move people. The Lab was created to build public support for proven solutions that can solve homelessness. Changing public opinion requires creativity, consistency and deep collaboration with others in the sector. After all, we are working to undo decades of narratives that blame […]

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Writing for Movements: Navigating the Maze of Academic Jargon

05/18/2023

By Meriam Salem, Narrative Specialist As a visual storyteller and academic, I know that words and images are powerful in creating social change. Whether working on a film project, writing an academic paper or advocating for a cause, I am always looking for ways to communicate my message more effectively and authentically. That said, I […]

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Essentials for Transformative Narratives: Share Lived Experience

05/17/2023

Narrative plays a big role in building the public will to solve homelessness. Dominant narratives about people experiencing homelessness focus on individuals making bad personal decisions,  which often lead to ineffective and dehumanizing solutions – like clearing tents and throwing out people’s belongings, including ID, medications and what they need to survive. That’s why we’re […]

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Statement about the tragic death of Jordan Neely

05/05/2023

From Marisol Bello, Executive Director of the Housing Narrative Lab Jordan Neely was a beloved member of his community, known for his kindness, sense of humor and his passion for music. He shared his love of music with those around him, performing on New York City streets and the subway. And like so many of us, […]

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