Human Rights Lecture Explores Harsh Realities of Homelessness

Shannon Mathews, dean of the ULV College of Arts and Sciences, greets Ryan J. Smith, president and CEO of St. Joseph Center. (ULV Photo/ Brandon Le)

Smith shares personal experiences and urges communities to treat unhoused individuals with dignity while creating supportive policies and services

Ryan J. Smith, president and CEO of the St. Joseph Center spoke about the causes and human impact of homelessness during his presentation for the 2026 Frederick Douglass Human Rights Lecture. Smith urged communities to treat unhoused people with dignity and work together to create policies and support systems that reduce homelessness.
Watch presentation here:

Video: Claudia Gonzalez / Ken Pucci