Good Old Lower East Side

Citywide Demonstration against HUD's Forced Labor Policy

Feb 22, 2001

On January 15, 2001, the birthday and holiday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. NYCHA residents protested against the return of forced slavery for all people who live in Public Housing. That day, which was one of the coldest and rainiest days this month, a lot of people joined to commemorate the birth of Martin Luther King, Jr. by giving honor to his memory and remembering the events that took place on January 1, 1863 when the Emancipation Proclamation came into effect, which stated that there shall be no more slavery for African Americans.

The march/protest was all-together a big success. Community residents spoke out stating their disagreement with the community service residents have to do in order to keep their apartments. The residents have to work two hours a week-eight hours a month for no payment; if the residents do not agree with this contract they lose their apartments.

The residents marched around the African Burial Ground holding up cardboard signs opposing the work service resolution. Lower East Side Tenants Union and GOLES were present at this event, Ms. Carmen Pabon from Lillian Wald Houses said it is unconstitutional and a legalized form of slave labor.

THE FIGHT CONTINUES AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL OUR RIGHTS ARE RESPECTED!!