In the face of what they call an unprecedented housing crisis, crowds converged at Philadelphia’s City Hall this past Saturday, passionately voicing their concerns with chants like “No fight too small, housing is a right for all”, Your Content has learned.
The demonstration, brought to life by local grassroots organizations and the national Center for Popular Democracy, saw hundreds of protesters rally in support of better housing rights for all citizens.
“America’s landscape is scattered with empty buildings office towers and homes alike, while millions struggle with unaffordable rents, homelessness, or resort to couch surfing.
Our only demand is basic human dignity for every family,” said Analilia Mejia, co-director of the Center for Popular Democracy, during her interview with NBC10.
Mejia further stressed that the protest served as a call to arms for local politicians to tackle the country’s mounting housing crisis. “With investments from both federal and state governments, we have the capacity to house all Americans. It’s high time we make it happen,” she expressed.
The gathering also spotlighted individuals who’ve been hard hit by skyrocketing rent increases, particularly during the pandemic, deeming these practices as fundamentally unfair.
Protester Teresa Quintana, who came with Make the Road Connecticut, shared her experience of working with numerous immigrant families living under challenging circumstances due to the nationwide surge in rental costs, creating hardships for many lower-income residents.