I counted 60 to 80 folks at the Summit during the day (not counting the kids, who nevertheless reminded me why were there), most of whom were tenants and most of whom were people of color. It was a smaller turnout then expected, which we are looking at, but the events of Senator Wellstone's death really put a pall on all political activities, for me at least, and for others I expect as well
In any event, in addition to a number of tenant leaders (yep, a leader AND a tenant) we recognized, listmembers Dean Zimmermann, Gary Schiff and Robert Lilligren were there and agreed to sponsor one or more of our city ordinance and/or policy change proposals. Thanks to them for doing so, for participating and listening to tenant stories, and for speaking forcefully about our various issues, particularly on a day like it was. I half expected cancellation after Sen. Wellstone's death, but CM Schiff reminded us why we were there and what we had to accomplish.
This was the first of a number of events for us as we build momentum for a true tenant rights movement. We build it slowly, collectively, collaboratively, but we build it and it will continue, despite the riff raff we or I receive from time to time. I tell you what, I love this work.
Gregory Luce
Project 504/Minneapolis (North Phillips)
JIM GRAHAM wrote:
Were any "List" members able to attend the Project 504 sponsored "Tenants Forum" at the Indian Center this weekend. What happened? I was wondering how many people attended and what if anything resulted. It was in Ventura Village and I was interested to see if more tenants or more employees of social service agencies attended. Greg Luce must have listed over ten agencies co-hosting the event with him.
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