Offensive cartoon demeans homeless people in need

OH. SEEMS THE Albuquerque Journal editorial board took another pass at deep thinking before publishing another extremely offensive syndicated cartoon. Or did (editors) know exactly the message (they) were sending when (they) slapped (Michael) Ramirez’s political cartoon take on Field of Dreams (Nov. 18) on (the) Opinion page?

This not only is insulting to the range of public/private entities and good Albuquerqueans earnestly trying to figure out together — whether and when we agree or no — how to address homeless in our community. It is really flip and unhelpful. And, it is at its core dehumanizing of people in need who are living out the crass public policies and community inattention that create homelessness in the first place.

The last thing we need in this country right now — or ever — are irresponsible public messages that fan the flames of hate and otherization. Shame on you ABQ Journal. Haven’t you learned by now?

JENNIFER L. METZLER CEO, Albuquerque Health Care For The Homeless, Inc.