United for the same cause, council members and other elected officials along with ordinary New Yorkers raised their voices for social justice on the steps of NYC City Hall.
One of the main voices is that of councilor Pierina Sánchez.
“We are going to fight for a country and a city that responds and attends to those who need us the most, for social justice,” said the councilor.
Housing is a human right, protesters shouted.
Both Public Defender Jumaane Williams, Comptroller Brad Lander, and several councilmembers shared their vision for a more inclusive city that is fair to those most in need when it comes to affordable housing.
There are several bills that focus on ensuring affordable housing for thousands of New Yorkers who barely earn a living.
The bill package is designed to expand affordable housing programs that help tenants keep rents controlled and affordable.
Councilor Alexa Avilés also supports this bill.
“We know that it is a very serious situation, that rents are too high and we need to change and we need investment in affordable houses,” said the councilor. “We’re developing houses in our city to a very high standard, no, it doesn’t work, so here we are trying to do something very different for New Yorkers who need it.”
Councilor Alexa Aviles.
Councilwoman Sánchez spoke at the plenary session of the municipal council about how difficult it is for the families of her Latino community, who in many cases barely earn $21,000 a year, pay rent.
The bills also include the opportunity for tenants to buy their apartments, when the property owner decides to sell the building.
“One of the policies here is for the owners to first go to the tenants to see if they want to buy their homes,” added councilor Avilés.
Both the bill and testimonials from tenants affected by high rental costs were heard in full council. And they hope that this vision of a fairer city will come true.
