I thought the discussion of drug use and drug users in Dr. Bezio’s podcast was really interesting and an important lens to apply to the discussion of “making assumptions.” In a lot of ways, assumptions are a very uncontrollable habit that humans have abided by for survival. Judging something to be unsafe or dangerous keeps us alive. It’s instinctual, but the perpetuation of incorrect assumptions is really dangerous. For example, the historical assumption of people of color being more likely to be drug users and sellers has created not only massive disparities in our justice system but has also deeply racialized other institutions, especially those concerning mental and physical health. Further, the repeated stereotypes throughout history make them seem correct because “that’s just the way things are.” This mentality is deeply damaging as it restricts us from being critical of not only our history but also our present-day reality. Questioning the structures which surround us, notably the justice system and its deeply rooted history in racist practices, is vital to the wellbeing of our nation. I would argue the only safe assumption to make is that nothing is as it seems. Assuming one thing of someone may not only limit their abilities but also limits our expectations and beliefs in them. This is true for the conversation about drug usage especially as it relates to homeless populations in the US. Perhaps if we as individuals and society did not assume that homeless people are homeless because of their work ethic and drug usage, we would be able to uplift these communities and support them in finding jobs, healthcare, homes, and stability. Assumptions inhibit us from seeing the best in others and in ourselves.