During a recent Pittsburgh City Council meeting, advocates for housing justice rallied in support of an ordinance proposed by Councilwoman Deb Gross aimed at amending the Stop the Violence funds to include eviction prevention measures. The initiative seeks to provide legal representation for tenants facing eviction, a move that supporters argue is crucial for protecting vulnerable residents and preventing homelessness.

David Brinigan, co-chair of the Pittsburgh Housing Justice Table, emphasized the overwhelming community support for the ordinance, citing over 1,500 petition signatures and numerous organizational endorsements. He highlighted that only 22 jurisdictions nationwide currently guarantee legal representation for tenants, positioning Pittsburgh to join this progressive movement.

Sam Schmidt, representing the housing justice table, passionately argued that housing should be recognized as a human right, not a commodity. He shared his personal experience with eviction, underscoring the trauma it inflicts on individuals and families. Schmidt called for the council to support the legislation as a necessary step toward safeguarding tenants from market-driven evictions.

Other speakers echoed these sentiments, including Steven Lascaris from USW Local 9562, who noted the impact of evictions on public service workers and the community at large. Social worker Madeline McGrady stressed that access to stable housing is foundational to health and economic stability, advocating for the expansion of funding for eviction prevention.

Swain Uber, an attorney involved in the Law of the Day program, reported a high success rate for tenants receiving legal assistance, with nearly 80% of cases resulting in favorable outcomes. He pointed out that many families in neighborhoods across Pittsburgh lack access to these vital resources, emphasizing the need for expanded funding.

The meeting also addressed broader issues of housing affordability, with speakers highlighting the unsustainable rent burdens faced by many residents. Liretta Payne from the Pittsburgh Human Rights Alliance called for transformative action to ensure dignity and justice for all renters.

As the council moves forward with discussions on the proposed legislation, the collective voices of advocates reflect a growing recognition of the urgent need for tenant protections in Pittsburgh. The proposed ordinance represents a significant step toward addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that all residents have access to safe and stable homes.