Experiencing Poverty Simulation at a Golf Course... 'Stolen Poverty' Sparks Outrage in the US

Highland Park in the US Hosts 'Poverty Experience Event'
Controversy as It Is Known as One of Chicago's Wealthiest Neighborhoods
Netizens Say "An Act That Insults the Poor"

A suburb of Chicago, USA, is facing public backlash after organizing a poverty simulation event at a golf course with the aim of "increasing understanding of poverty."

According to NBC Chicago and others on the 6th (local time), Highland Park, a northern suburb of Chicago, announced that it will hold a "Poverty Simulation Event" at the local golf course, Highland Park Country Club, on the 9th.

[Image source=Highland Park City Facebook]

The city authorities prepared the event in collaboration with several organizations, including the Highland Park Community Foundation. The authorities described it as "a simulation event to raise residents' understanding and awareness of what it is like to live in poverty."

The event description states, "Participants will be placed in situations where resources are insufficient," and "Through this event, awareness of the need for resources to support people living in poverty will increase." Participants will experience living in poverty for one month. Participation is free, but prior registration is required.

As the news spread through social media (SNS), critical public opinion arose immediately. One netizen pointed out, "This is an attempt by the wealthy to improve their own image and further stigmatize poor people," adding, "This event is not a fundraising event."

Another netizen criticized, "How insulting this is to all those currently struggling economically."

Especially since Highland Park is considered one of Chicago's representative affluent neighborhoods, the controversy has intensified. Chicago NBC cited a 2021 report by the financial media outlet '24/7 Wall Street,' stating, "Highland Park is one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the United States, with a median income more than twice the national average."

In response to the ongoing criticism, city authorities stated that the event was developed and implemented by social welfare experts. They further explained that it is intended to "reduce the gap between the wealthy and the poor."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.