A Statement From The Coalition to Protect Missouri Tenants:
Rent is due this Friday, May 1, and due to the pandemic, tens of thousands of Missourians are unable to make that payment.
In the wake of the economic and public health crisis of COVID19, tenants across the state have been vocal about the need and their demands — in social media campaigns, during virtual rallies and through a distanced protest spanning the state on I-70. These actions have garnered attention from across the country.
Still, Governor Mike Parson continues to do little to ensure Missourians are able to stay healthy and housed during this crisis. In fact, Missouri has been ranked at the bottom of national lists related to housing/COVID response. In some counties, eviction hearings are being scheduled, and there is a movement to conduct hearings by phone.
On Thursday afternoon, the day before rent is due, the Coalition to Protect MO Tenants will be taking demands directly to the Capitol steps, following the Governor’s daily press briefing, calling for:
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A rent/mortgage suspension;
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An immediate, comprehensive statewide eviction/foreclosure moratorium;
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A ban on utility shut-offs and a mandate for universal service; and,
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Housing and expanded services for people experiencing homelessness.
Find the Coalition’s full list of demands HERE. The rally will follow strict social distance protocols and will be followed by a march to the Governor’s mansion for other planned activities. Tenants will be available for comment after the event.
WHO: Coalition to Protect Missouri Tenants, 53 tenant representatives from across Missouri
WHEN: 4 pm on Thursday, April 30
WHERE: East steps of the Missouri State Capitol,Jefferson City
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The Coalition to Protect Missouri Tenants includes over 50 community, labor, and faith organizations, including KC Tenants, Missouri Jobs with Justice, Action St. Louis, Kansas Missouri Dream Alliance, Renew Missouri, Heartland Center for Jobs and Freedom, Team TIF St. Louis, Service Employees International Union – Healthcare MO/KS, Service Employees International Union Local 1, Service Employees International Union State Council, United Auto Workers Local 249, Springfield NAACP.