On Saturday, June 23, 2018, approximately 45 members at the VTU General Meeting voted unanimously for the union to join the BC Poverty Reduction Coaltion

June 24, 2018

Vancouver Tenants Union joins BC Poverty Reduction Coalition

The decision was made at a general membership meeting after the coalition invited the VTU to join

UNCEDED COAST SALISH TERRITORIES (Vancouver) -- On Saturday, June 23rd at a general membership meeting, members of the Vancouver Tenants Union voted unanimously to join the BC Poverty Reduction Coalition.

The 70-member coalition, which includes community and non-profit groups, faith groups, health organizations, First Nations and Aboriginal organizations, businesses, labour organizations, and social policy groups, aims to work towards a poverty-free British Columbia.

"Joining this coalition will also strengthen our collective voices calling for real actions to reduce poverty," said Steering Committee member Kell Gerlings. "The VTU can help spread the word about tenants rights, and the need for tenant activism, leadership and organizing in BC." 

Organizers at the PRC are hoping to officially endorse the VTU's Rental Housing Task Force submission at their next meeting, which includes 50 recommendations for changes to the BC Residential Tenancy Act, including tying rent control to the unit, rather than the tenant.

The Vancouver Tenants Union, founded in 2017, is made up of over 1000 general members, tenant organizers, and building representatives. More about the BC Poverty Reduction Coaltion HERE.

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