Reviving Civic Engagement: Solomon Bukenya’s Journey from Adversity to Advocacy

At 64, Solomon Bukenya’s life story is a compelling tapestry of resilience and hope. Having endured the harrowing experiences of civil war and genocide in Rwanda, followed by seeking asylum in the United States, Bukenya has faced immense challenges, including the loss of a leg, periods of homelessness, and struggles with addiction.

From Survival to Civic Engagement

Today, Bukenya channels his energy towards promoting civic engagement in his community, especially following a recent local election marked by disappointingly low voter turnout. “Life does not stop with elections; life goes on,” he stated shortly after the polls closed. He emphasizes the need for collective action: “We have to engage. We have to get out and motivate our friends, our people, our communities, and work together.”

Evolution of Perspective

After spending 16 years unhoused, Bukenya initially lacked interest in voting, viewing it as irrelevant amidst his survival struggle. His first motivation to participate as a poll worker was financial—San Francisco compensates poll workers—but this experience shifted his outlook on civic involvement. “I became more interested and even excited to join the program outreach,” he remarked.

Bukenya’s transformation is not unique; a 2012 report from the National Coalition for the Homeless revealed that only 10% of eligible unhoused voters participate in elections. Factors contributing to this disengagement often include the pressing need for basic survival over political involvement and past disillusionment with electoral processes, as noted by Zak Franet, director of policy and public affairs at Episcopal Community Services.

The Turning Point

His personal turning point came in 2022 when he secured stable housing. Shortly after, he was drawn into civic activities, taking on the role of a poll worker. “First and foremost, money. I wanted some bucks,” he said with a laugh. Yet his engagement grew deeper as he began outreach efforts to invite community members to participate in elections, fostering relationships and amplifying their voices.

Community Outreach and Voter Mobilization

With a charismatic smile and an encouraging demeanor, Bukenya passionately connects with his neighbors. “You are part of the system. We are all in this together,” he tells them, reinforcing the importance of political engagement in their lives. He believes that involvement in civic activities helps the community recognize their interconnectedness and collective power.

During a recent voter education workshop hosted at a supportive housing site, he humorously highlighted the benefits of becoming poll workers: “That is good money, I’m telling you—because when I got that check, it was heavy.” However, he balanced this with heartfelt insights about building community and ensuring their voices are heard through voting.

A Collective Call to Action

In October, Bukenya participated in “Walk with Windy,” a tradition in the Tenderloin neighborhood aimed at increasing voter turnout. Led by Windy Click, who herself overcame challenges to cast a vote, this event saw participants, including individuals experiencing homelessness, rejoicing as they marched to City Hall with chants like, “Tenderloin pride, Tenderloin power, we’re voting strong, this is our hour!”

Tariq Johnson, a participant and former resident experiencing homelessness, was motivated by this initiative to re-register and vote. “I haven’t voted for nothing but Obama, but this right here brought me back,” he expressed, fully aware of the historical significance of his participation.

Building Connections and Inspiring Change

Following the event, Bukenya found fulfillment in conversing with attendees who shared similar life experiences. These connections reinforce his commitment to fostering community engagement. “Making connections like this one drives me to keep going,” he reflected, embodying the spirit of resilience that has defined his journey.

Through his advocacy, Solomon Bukenya demonstrates that, despite the struggles of the past, civic participation can flourish, reminding everyone that every individual’s voice matters in shaping the future of their community.