Month: October 2024

The Housing Crisis Demands Action: Unite for Justice Now

Posted on October 24, 2024

The housing crisis in America is spiraling out of control. With rents skyrocketing and working-class communities being pushed out of their homes, millions face an uncertain future. We cannot afford to wait any longer—housing justice must be a priority, and the time for action is now.

At The Sanders Institute Gathering in Los Angeles, leading voices like Michael Weinstein, President and Co-founder of the Healthy Housing Foundation, and a panel of dedicated community leaders shared their vision for solutions that will protect, preserve, and produce affordable housing for all.

They highlighted the urgency of this fight, especially with key initiatives like the Justice for Renters campaign for Prop 33 that could pave the way for rent control measures across the country. With corporate greed driving prices higher and gentrification displacing communities, the stakes have never been higher.

But there is hope.

The panelists—activists, lawmakers, and labor leaders—made it clear: We can win this fight if we unite. Here’s how:
• Prevent displacement: Push for stronger rent control policies that keep people in their homes.
• Protect our communities: Stand against gentrification that uproots neighborhoods and erases culture.
• Produce affordable housing that works for all, not just the wealthy.

This isn’t just a fight for the future of our cities; it’s a fight for human dignity. Housing is a human right, and we need your help to ensure everyone can access it.

Now is the time to act.

Below you will find Michael’s powerful speech from our LA Gathering dedicated to Affordable Housing and Homelessness, the panel discussion on housing and workers’ rights from the same event, and the panel from our Vermont Gathering.

What you can do right now:

  1. Stay informed: Follow The Sanders Institute on social media for real-time updates and ways to get involved.
  2. Take action: Share this message with your network to spread the word.
  3. Support the cause: If you’re moved to make a difference, consider donating today. Every contribution helps us continue the fight for justice.

Let’s not wait for another crisis to act.

Together, we can protect our communities, preserve affordable housing, and produce real change.

Bill McKibben and Ben Jealous Ignite a Must-Watch Conversation on the Climate Crisis at The Sanders Institute Gathering in Vermont

Posted on October 16, 2024

The climate catastrophe upon us inspired us to share a positive outlook and action-oriented approach shared at our last Sanders Institute Gathering. The three-day symposium brought together elected officials, academics, activists, journalists, financial experts, filmmakers, and thought leaders to explore pressing topics, from healthcare and artificial intelligence to the evolving role of media in affecting change.

 

Our Opening Night session, “The Climate Crisis,” set the stage with a discussion between Bill McKibben, renowned author and founder of Third Act, and Ben Jealous, Executive Director of the Sierra Club and former CEO of the NAACP. Their powerful insights and compelling arguments illuminated the urgent need for bold action in the face of climate change. 

 

It wasn’t all bad news, however…

 

Bill McKibben highlighted the significant strides made with initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the potential for political healing as these funds are utilized across the country – in red and blue states alike. While emphasizing the critical nature of the climate crisis, he also offered information on cutting-edge advances, urging us to embrace hope and push for transformative change before time runs out.

 

Ben Jealous spoke about the tangible progress, such as investments in urban tree planting, solar access for all, and significant environmental victories. His message of optimism and action provides hope amidst the ongoing climate challenges.

 

If you missed the live event, we encourage you to watch the full video of their talk above or on The Sanders Institute YouTube. It’s a powerful reminder of the critical issues at stake and the positive steps we can take together.

The Sanders Institute Gathering Global Perspectives: Exploring Social Housing Models for Sustainable Communities

Posted on October 5, 2024

We’re excited to share an important panel from The Sanders Institute Gathering in Los Angeles on Affordable Housing and Homelessness. Global Perspectives: Exploring Social Housing Models, featuring California Assemblymember Alex Lee and Mayor of South San Francisco James Coleman, explores social housing examples in Asia and Europe; and recent legislative wins here in the U.S.

Assemblymember Lee, one of just five renters in the California state legislature, discussed his role as Chair of the Select Committee on Social Housing. He highlighted his advocacy for comprehensive housing legislation and compared successful international models, such as Singapore’s public housing, which integrates home ownership and ensures affordability through state control.

Mayor Coleman provided a local perspective on South San Francisco’s housing crisis, where median home values in San Mateo County exceed $2 million. He highlighted the city’s efforts to expand social housing, including the successful 2022 Measure AA, which authorized the city to advance affordable housing initiatives. Coleman emphasized the importance of inclusive policies and public amenities like schools and parks as models for accessible housing solutions.

Both speakers stressed the need for universal social housing approaches, drawing on international examples and advocating for policies that support long-term stability and broad societal benefits.

International examples like Vienna and Singapore highlight the success of robust social housing programs. Vienna, a consistently top-ranked city for livability, has prioritized housing since 1919, with 62% of its residents in social housing, supported by strong tenant protections. Singapore, despite its business-friendly environment, houses 80% of its population in social housing, showing the adaptability of these models across different systems.

We invite you to watch the full discussion in the video above. 

For more insights, read Assemblymember Lee’s op-ed in Commond Dreams here. 

 If inspired, please consider supporting our mission with a donation to the Sanders Institute. Your support drives meaningful change.