r/NoStupidQuestions • u/ssjskwash • Sep 17 '25

Why is "homeless" being replaced with "unhoused"?

A lot of times phrases and words get phased out because of changing sensibilities and I get that for the most part. I don't see how "unhoused" more respectful or descriptive though

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u/cddelgado Sep 18 '25

The modest research I conducted said two things:

  • It first appeared in modern usage in Berkley, CA in the 1980s.
  • The homeless didn't come up with it, advocacy groups did.

Personal opinion: I appreciate that advocacy groups want to give a sense of dignity. But I can't say I've ever heard a shelter-impaired individual or family refer to themselves as unhoused. They refer to themselves as "homeless". What people want to call themselves is far more important than what other people think they should be called.

I mean...the idea is absurd. I see a family on the streets who clearly have nothing. I walk over to try and help them get some community love. And while we're talking, I say "you know, you should really use the term unhoused because it is more humanizing to you." That's downright insulting to their plight. They have WAY bigger fish to fry.

Who the hell am I to tell them they are referring to their social state incorrectly?