The tragic killing of Jordan Neely on a subway has shed light on a growing crisis in American cities—one that is fueled by lax criminal justice policies and a lack of accountability for violent actions. This heartbreaking incident serves as a grim reminder of how our current system fails to protect the most vulnerable in society while allowing situations to escalate into violence.
Jordan Neely was a 30-year-old Black homeless man and street performer who died after being restrained by Daniel Penny on May 1, 2023, in a New York City subway. This incident highlights a fundamental question: why wasn’t there more support for people who, like Neely, appeared to be experiencing a mental illness crisis? In a just society, individuals in need should receive proper mental health evaluations and support, not be left to suffer until situations turn fatal. Neely had shown signs of needing help, yet the system continues to neglect those who don’t receive proper intervention.
Moreover, it seems that policymakers prefer to turn a blind eye to the problem. Neely’s case was one where a mental health evaluation could have potentially led to supportive interventions. Instead of following through, there is a troubling tendency to inadequately address mental health issues of people experiencing homelessness.
One cannot help but feel sympathy for those who witness such tragic events, knowing that they are often left with the burden of choosing between their safety and intervening when they see something wrong. The fear of being criminally charged for stepping in has created a culture of inaction. The possibility of facing severe consequences for intervening can leave many feeling helpless and fearful. It’s a sad state of affairs when people are afraid to protect themselves or others for fear of the legal consequences.
This incident also exposes a deeper societal issue. The reluctance to adequately address mental health and homelessness exacerbates these tragedies. A clear distinction should be made that systemic neglect often plays a significant role in these events—not just individual actions. The notion of addressing only criminal behavior without systemic improvements does not solve the root issues that contribute to these situations.
People deserve to feel safe and supported in their neighborhoods, workplaces, and transportation. The rise of such tragic incidents is a symptom of a broader breakdown in social support systems, one that needs to be confronted head-on. The responsibility lies on lawmakers and citizens alike to demand better policies that prioritize public health and safety while also ensuring that those who need help receive it. If we continue to neglect these issues, tragic stories will repeat themselves, leaving an indelible mark on our communities.
