In Hamburg, too many people fear for their homes. Renters are overwhelmed by their housing costs and have to go without vacations, new clothes, trips to cafés, or retirement savings. This hits low-income people especially hard: It’s not uncommon for them to have to spend half their monthly income on housing. That leaves hardly any room for a good, self-determined life. Young people are stuck living with their parents because their training stipends and federal student aid aren’t even enough to cover a room in a shared apartment. Neighborhoods are being eroded by short-term rentals. The list of grievances goes on and on and is now topped off by looming cuts to housing subsidies.
In light of these catastrophic conditions, the Hamburg Tenants’ Association is calling for a protest. Under the slogan “Lower Rents, Better Future,” we demand a housing policy that puts people first—not maximum profits. Hamburg needs permanently affordable housing and effective tenant protection!
Join us in sending a message! Come to the rally on the Reesendamm Bridge on Monday, October 5, to mark International Tenants’ Day. The event begins at 6 p.m. Several speakers will offer insights into different perspectives on the housing market, as everyone faces very different challenges depending on their life circumstances and privileges. To wrap things up, comedian Jean-Philippe Kindler will take the stage, so no one has to go home feeling down!
