I go by Dr. David Nash Stabolito DD PhD, fulfilling the roles of both resident and representative for the tenants' union at Baltimore Hotel, one of the Single Room Occupancy (SRO) hotels managed by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF). My duties extend to three other associated hotels – King Edward, Baltimore, and New Hope – and I offer assistance to 10 other SROs when required. As AHF expands its property holdings with the acquisition of another SRO, I grow increasingly concerned about the living conditions for both current and prospective residents, who deserve better.

As a union representative and council member within the Skid Row community, I amplify the voices of many that often go unheard. Our struggles are genuine, our demands valid, and our unity unwavering. We urge the city of Los Angeles, AHF, and the Healthy Housing Foundation to formally acknowledge the Skid Row Tenants Council as the official Tenant Union for AHF Skid Row. This recognition will empower us to advocate for improved living standards, fair treatment, and enhanced services for all residents in our community.

Skid Row is home to one of the largest homeless populations in America (according to the Los Angeles Almanac), yet tenant rights are frequently overlooked by those responsible for upholding them. By granting official recognition to our council as the authoritative voice for these tenants, we can begin to address these issues directly. As of May 7, 2024, our attempts to engage AHF in dialogue have been disregarded since February, which I believe violates legal standards due to their refusal to recognize us as a Tenant Union.

The time for change is now. The time for acknowledgment is at hand. The time for decisive action has come! Sign this petition to lend your support to our cause and assist us in bringing about crucial changes in Skid Row.

Our residences are currently plagued by cockroach infestations and other hazardous conditions, which no one should have to endure in their homes. I speak not only as a representative but also as a victim of these circumstances. The health risks associated with these conditions are severe; exposure to bacterial infections can lead to significant neurological damage, while cockroach infestations can trigger asthma attacks and spread diseases.

As residents of Skid Row, Los Angeles – an area already struggling with a homelessness crisis – we face numerous challenges without the added burden of unsafe living conditions. We demand transparency from AHF regarding their plans to improve these circumstances.

We insist that AHF fulfill its responsibilities to its tenants by ensuring clean, secure living environments free of pests and harmful substances like mold, bacteria, and other contaminants. Furthermore, we call on them to establish oversight mechanisms that ensure transparency and integrity in all their housing-related endeavors.

This is about improving our current situation and setting a standard for how providers of low-income housing treat their tenants throughout Los Angeles. Sign this petition if you believe that everyone deserves secure housing, regardless of income or social standing.

The time for change is upon us. The time for acknowledgment is now. The time for decisive action has arrived! Sign this petition to lend your support to our cause and aid us in effecting vital changes in Skid Row.