The death of an unarmed, homeless man, Jordan Neely, has thrust mental health onto the political forefront of New York City. A 24-year-old former Marine held Neely in a chokehold on the F-line train, resulting in his death. The former Marine has claimed self-defense, as Neely had a history of violent and erratic behaviour due to untreated mental illness.

The incident, which was caught on video, has caused outrage with protesters calling for an arrest to be made. The Manhattan prosecutor and police are currently deciding whether to press charges, while a grand jury will determine whether there is enough evidence to bring Mr. Penny to trial.

However, this event serves as a reminder of the city's crisis in homelessness and untreated mental health. Many citizens and politicians in New York are discussing the lack of investment in mental health solutions. Neely's death represents a painful issue, which thousands of homeless and mentally ill New Yorkers face daily; the moral stain this crisis puts on everyone. Although the media and politicians have raised awareness of these issues, it is evident that serious government funding and action must be taken to address the city's crisis of mental illness and homelessness.

Will Jordan Neely's tragic death be the catalyst that spurs the city to invest more in solving the crisis of mental illness and homelessness?