Homeless and Indigenous in Minneapolis

Abstract

SUMMARY Indigenous peoples are overrepresented in the homeless population. This paper examines the extent to which homelessness and some of its possible antecedents and consequences differ for indigenous peoples and majority whites residing in the city of Minneapolis. We conclude that being homeless and indigenous in Minneapolis is a significantly different experience for this group than it is for majority whites. The cultural context of indigenous homelessness reflects higher poverty and inconsistent patterns of employment. It also reflects higher support in family and friend relationships. Higher misuse of alcohol reflects personal disability while lower use of mental health services reflects a structural disability. Discrimination is reflected in previous childhood out-of-home placements.