Last week, I testified before New York City's Rent Guidelines Board and shared my story as a third-generation tenant fighting to remain home, particularly as the only Afro-Latina rent-stabilized tenant left in my building.

Shortly after I asserted my succession rights after my grandmother's passing two years ago in 2024, I found myself facing a holdover eviction case that remains ongoing today. Since then, I've spent countless hours learning about tenant rights, rent stabilization, the history of coop conversions, connecting with housing advocates across the city, and supporting other tenants in the struggle. Because of this I've witnessed firsthand how difficult it can be for working-class New Yorkers of color to remain in the neighborhoods they call home. 

In my testimony, I urged the Rent Guidelines Board to freeze or roll back rents because every increase places additional pressure on rent-regulated tenants already struggling to stay in their homes. The loss of affordable housing is not an abstract policy debate for me. It is something I experience daily. Listening to the testimony that evening, I was reminded that while landlords may differ in size, many tenants share similar challenges: housing insecurity, delayed repairs, and prolonged uncertainty in their efforts to remain in the communities they have called home for generations.

Over the last two years, I've come to understand how real estate speculation, the treatment of housing as a commodity, and the continued displacement of longtime residents affect communities across New York City. Affordable housing does more than keep a roof over someone's head. It allows people to put down roots, invest in their neighborhoods, and give back to the communities they love. When longtime residents are able to remain home, communities retain the volunteers, advocates, caregivers, and local leaders who help make neighborhoods stronger.

Today, this petition is at around 1,600 signatures. Let's get it to 2,000 before the next "adjournment." Learn more about my story and ways to support my eviction defense fund at: beenherestillhere.com.

Thank you to everyone who has signed this petition, shared my story, written letters, and supported this fight. Your support has helped me keep going through one of the most challenging periods of my life.

The ability to remain in one's home is about more than housing. It is about dignity, stability, and the ability to enjoy one's home in peace.

We've been here. We're still here. 💪🏽❤️✊🏽