Homeless Pitch Tents in Safe Haven of Legislative Plaza

The number of tents pitched on Legislative Plaza has continued to grow since a federal judge overruled a curfew for the state-owned space. But some of those setting up camp outside the capitol are not aligned with the Occupy Nashville protest. They’re homeless.

The area has become a kind of safe haven now that state troopers are temporarily barred from making arrests. Howard Allen and his wife aren’t as interested in protesting the power of Wall Street as finding a place they won’t be bothered. They’re set up beside War Memorial Auditorium.

“Right here, the Sharaton sees us. The police drive by, they see us. The guards come out and talk to us. We’re just chilling, waiting for housing.”

Most are minding their own business, but a few can been seen drinking in broad daylight. Occupiers like Ron White are feeling the need to police the area themselves.

“Anything that happens here now looks like its Occupy Nashville. No matter what happens, they’re going to label it Occupy Nashville. So it’s almost like our job to make sure we make the movement look correct.”

White says he doesn’t want to kick the homeless off the plaza. He’d like to bring them into the fold. For one, he says, they could share their tips for surviving in the cold when winter weather really sets in.