VOICES FROM STREET: THE EXPRESSION ETHICAL-POLITICAL SUFFERING

Abstract

 People experiencing homelessness constantly face prejudice, hostility, marginalization, and stigmas imposed by society as a whole. Such situations contribute to a form of suffering that goes beyond the emotional sphere, being related to social, economic, and political dimensions. These experiences can be understood through the lens of the concept of ethical-political suffering, which deprives the subject of autonomy and renders them incapacitated, fostering the perception that their reality is unchangeable. This study aimed to understand how ethical-political suffering is experienced in the daily lives of people living on the streets. To this end, qualitative field research was conducted. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews at the philanthropic institution O Bom Samaritano – Casa de Passagem, located in Medianeira (PR), Brazil. Data analysis was based on Minayo’s (2012) thematic analysis, which resulted in two thematic categories: (1) Life experience on the streets: suffering and disrespect; and (2) The street as an expression of weakened social bonds. The findings reveal that people experiencing homelessness are rendered invisible by society, viewed as subaltern and worthless. This study emerged to give voice to those who are voiceless, highlighting their experiences to foster possibilities for change in this situation.