This article maps the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown in the City of Tshwane through the lens of street homelessness. This is done through a "thick description" of what happened during this time. This map is then read against both the intention of the Tshwane Homelessness Policy and the said objectives of the Tshwane Homelessness Forum. The article will indicate ways in which collaborative approaches in the city are starting to bear fruit, whilst at the same time showing how persistent competition and isolation from each other works detrimentally for both those who are homeless and seeking support, as well as for those perpetuating isolationist action. It recommends specific areas in which integrated, collaborative action is required to break specific cycles of street homelessness in the city.
In this article we propose a contextual, trans-disciplinary epistemology from below, as explored through the lenses of the Tshwane Homeless Summit and the broader policy-making process of which it formed a part. It considers the Tshwane Homeless Summit as dramaturgy, wondering whether the stage that was set was predetermined or allowed for dissensus, irruption and surprise. The reflection of this article departs from a contextual theological perspective, suggesting that a contextual, trans-disciplinary epistemology from below requires a contextual spirituality in which the homeless/God will take centre stage.
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