Author: Evan Rose

Honoring Service: VA Land Can Provide Housing Solutions for Veterans

Posted on November 9, 2024

On this Veterans Day, even in these tumultuous times, it is important that we take the time to honor the sacrifices made by our military veterans and confront the pressing crisis of veteran homelessness. This year’s Sanders Institute Gathering in Los Angeles brought together a dedicated panel to discuss the ongoing struggle over some of the most coveted real estate in West LA—land that was once promised to those who bravely served our country.

We were heartened by a landmark ruling in September – shortly after our panel – that could significantly reshape housing justice for veterans in Los Angeles and serve as a crucial starting point for national reform. U.S. District Judge David O. Carter’s decision to order the VA to construct over 2,500 housing units for veterans marks a vital stride forward. This ruling addresses immediate concerns while setting a precedent for similar initiatives in communities nationwide, demonstrating that collective action can lead to real change in the fight against veteran homelessness. However, as of Friday, November 8, a temporary stay issued by the 9th Circuit Court is delaying progress.

Ongoing Challenges: Despite this progress, the alarming rise in unhoused veterans highlights the systemic challenges that persist. Many veterans face a critical shortage of affordable housing and encounter barriers rooted in institutional practices. Many could retain their homes with minimal financial assistance, underscoring the urgent need for targeted housing solutions and personalized support.

Advocacy from West LA: The West LA VA campus, originally designated as a sanctuary for veterans, has faced significant setbacks. In response, veterans have rallied to raise awareness about their housing needs, launching initiatives such as the “Tiny Shed” program for temporary shelters. Yet, bureaucratic hurdles continue to obstruct access to the housing they rightfully deserve.

Call for Accountability: The conversation surrounding veterans’ homelessness extends beyond social issues; it touches on profound violations of human dignity and constitutional rights. As we reflect on these injustices, we must advocate for accountability and support for veterans facing trauma and hardship.

At the Sanders Institute, we stand in solidarity with these advocates, amplifying their voices and efforts. We invite you to support grassroots movements and champion necessary legislative reforms. Together, we can create a future where every veteran can access safe, affordable housing.

Thank you for your attention to this important issue.

Below you will find additional reference materials as well.

KCAL – CBS News Los Angeles: Looking at the ongoing legal battle over the VA’s West LA campus on Veterans Day

Fox 11 Los Angeles: Setback for homeless veterans

Westside Current: Federal Court Order Halts Plan for Temporary Housing at West LA VA Campus Days Before Veterans Day

Los Angeles Times: U.S. appeals court stops work on modular shelters on the VA’s West L.A. campus

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.

The Sanders Institute Gathering Presents: U.S. Congress Roundtable on the Housing Crisis

Posted on September 9, 2024

Our recent panel, featuring U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, U.S. Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, and U.S. Congressman Ro Khanna, provided profound insights into the critical issues of affordable housing and homelessness. 

Senator Sanders reflected on his upbringing in a working-class family and the pivotal role rent control played for his family. He discussed the first municipal community land trust he started when he was Mayor of Burlington, Vermont. He highlighted his work on the National Affordable Housing Act and the Green New Deal for Public Housing, aimed at reducing carbon emissions, cutting fuel bills, and creating jobs by rehabilitating public housing. He called for a grassroots movement to re-prioritize national policies to address the housing crisis, emphasizing that the U.S., as a wealthy nation, has the means to build affordable housing and protect its citizens.

Congresswoman Jayapal, Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, addressed the recurring challenge of sidelining housing issues in political agendas despite their critical importance. She discussed the Build Back Better plan, which initially sought to address infrastructure, childcare, and housing through substantial investments. She decried the historical lack of sufficient housing investments, criticized rampant price-fixing for exacerbating the crisis, and called for a comprehensive approach that integrates housing with essential services like healthcare and education.

Congressman Khanna highlighted the stark disparity in housing within Silicon Valley, a region rich in tech wealth yet plagued by severe income inequality. He underscored the inadequate response to the housing crisis and explained how his Stop Wall Street Landlords Act would curtail the growing influence of private equity in housing. He called for a more robust economic justice agenda within the Democratic Party to confront systemic issues and powerful interests hindering progress.

If you are inspired by these discussions and wish to support our mission to address these critical issues, please consider donating to the Sanders Institute. Your contribution will enable us to continue driving meaningful change.

Sanders Institute Gathering in Los Angeles: The Housing Crisis

Posted on July 18, 2024

The Sanders Institute recently held a Gathering in Los Angeles to address the affordable housing and homelessness crisis and determine actionable solutions. Congressional Representatives Pramila Jayapal. Ro Khanna, Steven Horsford, Jimmy Gomez, and Senator Bernie Sanders shared several pieces of federal legislation, while Governor Gavin Newsom, Mayors Karen Bass, Darrell Steinberg, and Dr. Mark Ghaley discussed some promising initiatives in California.

The symposium featured 14 panel discussions covering a wide range of topics with a diverse group of elected officials, academics, and those on the front lines of this crisis. Jane Fonda and Nalleli Cobo illuminated the critical intersection between climate justice and housing policy, and Saket Soni made that same policy connection with climate resilience. Assemblymember Alex Lee and Mayor James Coleman shared other countries’ successes in providing sustainable housing; Dr. Joseph Bishop and Dr. Tyrone Howard discussed the intersection of race, education, and youth homelessness, while Dr. Margot Kushel presented groundbreaking research on homelessness in California. Michael Weinstein, Rep. Hugo Martinez, Ada Briceño, Denny Zane, Ericka Lesley, Alan Minsky, and Michael Lighty shared their experiences and insights as community leaders, and Mark Rosenbaum, Benjamin Henwood, and Rob Reynolds covered current fights to house veterans.

There are too many other names to list, but stay tuned! We will share more important work and outcomes from this symposium in the coming weeks and months.

California Victory Against Big Oil Shows What’s Possible When We Fight

Posted on July 12, 2024

Together, we are forging a path toward a world where every voice is heard, every life is valued, and every community thrives free from the threat of environmental harm.

Our win against fossil fuel giants in California last month—a modern-day David and Goliath fight—marks a profound victory in our ongoing battle for a cleaner, healthier world.

In the face of overwhelming opposition, California oil and gas drillers withdrew a challenge at the ballot box to a landmark state law that banned new oil drilling within 3,200 feet of a community and requires tighter health and safety standards for existing wells. The ban is now in effect. This triumph resonates far beyond the immediate victory; it reaffirms the enduring power of community and the relentless pursuit of justice. In California, we have shattered the illusion that profit should outweigh the health and safety of our people. Our collective voice has risen above that of the oil industry, proclaiming that our lives are not negotiable commodities.

Nearly 30,000 oil and gas wells in California sit within 3,200 feet of sensitive land, exposing the health and safety of nearly 3 million innocent Californians. These wells are disproportionately placed in communities of color, and their emissions can cause birth defects, respiratory illnesses, and even cancer. In 2021, an independent scientific advisory panel advised California officials that a 3,200-foot setback between oil wells and sensitive receptors is the minimum distance to protect public health.

In California, we have shattered the illusion that profit should outweigh the health and safety of our people. Our collective voice has risen above that of the oil industry, proclaiming that our lives are not negotiable commodities.

In the face of these stark realities, California Senate Bill (SB)1137 emerged as a beacon of hope—a legislative effort to establish a health and safety buffer zone between oil operations and communities. This bill aimed to safeguard public health and the environment by imposing sensible setbacks, ensuring that our neighborhoods are no longer sacrificed for corporate gain. However, the road to implementing this crucial legislation was blocked when the drillers put a referendum on the ballot to overturn the law and undo the will of the people.

Climate activists Nalleli Cobo and Jane Fonda speaking at the Sanders Institute Gathering that took place in Los Angeles earlier this year as they discussed their fight against fossil fuel giants in California. (Photo: © Bryan Giardinelli / The Sanders Institute)

The oil industry, driven by profits and indifferent to the suffering of kids and communities, launched a relentless campaign against SB 1137. Pouring a staggering $61 million into efforts to overturn the law, they sought to drown out our voices with misleading campaigns and political maneuvers. Their deep pockets funded a barrage of advertisements, lobbyists, and deceptive rhetoric aimed at undermining the very protections that our communities won and desperately need.

But we refused to be silenced. Armed with determination and unwavering resolve, we mobilized grassroots movements, rallied community support, and engaged lawmakers to stand firm against industry pressure. Our collective advocacy turned the tide, demonstrating that people power can triumph over corporate interests. Despite the formidable opposition, SB 1137 stood strong, embodying our unwavering commitment to justice and public health.

My childhood was stolen by the impacts of the fossil industry, and they cast a shadow over my future. I fight every day to ensure that my story will end with me.

My personal journey into activism was fueled by firsthand experience—the profound impact of living 30 feet away from an active oil and gas well that poisoned my health and threatened my future. This intimate connection to the issue ignited a fire within me, propelling me into advocacy at a young age. The diagnosis of stage 2 reproductive cancer at 19 was a devastating consequence of this environmental injustice—a reminder of the stakes in our fight. My childhood was stolen by the impacts of the fossil industry, and they cast a shadow over my future. I fight every day to ensure that my story will end with me.

Last month’s victory, and Big Oil’s unconditional surrender, is not just about legislative success; it is a testament to the resilience of communities and the power of grassroots activism. It symbolizes hope for a future where our children can grow up without fear of toxic exposure and where justice prevails over corporate greed. Together, we have proven that when we unite in pursuit of a common cause, we can achieve transformative change.

As we celebrate this milestone, let us remember that our work is far from over. Big Oil has already announced plans to sue over the law, hoping to overturn our victory in the courts. We must stand together and continue defending the 3,200-foot setback law to ensure that all Californians are protected from toxic oil drilling in their neighborhoods.

Let this victory propel us forward, energized and emboldened, to continue pushing for environmental justice and equity. Let us hold steadfast in our commitment to protect our communities, our health, and our planet from the harms of industrial pollution. Let’s continue to bring the fight to Big Oil and keep them on the run.

Together, we are forging a path toward a world where every voice is heard, every life is valued, and every community thrives free from the threat of environmental harm. This victory is not the end of our journey but a pivotal step forward in the ongoing fight for a better, healthier future for all.

Learn More: Climate Justice & Housing Policy at Sanders Institute Gathering with Jane Fonda and Nalleli Cobo