On May 20, 2023, when we gather for the Wisconsin Green Party's Spring Gathering under the theme "Housing is a Human Right", it's important to take a moment to appreciate the profound significance of these words. Housing is more than just a place to rest your head, it's a fundamental human need that affects every aspect of our lives, from health and safety to opportunities and social mobility.

Housing is central to the Wisconsin Green Party's vision for a more equitable and sustainable future. We have outlined our core principles in our platform, including the provision of high-quality, affordable public housing for all in need, the enactment of rent control legislation, and the termination of de facto segregation in Milwaukee and other urban areas.

High-Quality, Affordable Public Housing

Access to affordable housing is one of the most pressing issues of our time. In the richest country in the world, it's a disgrace that many of our citizens are priced out of decent housing, forced to live in substandard conditions, or even faced with homelessness.

The Green Party is committed to ensuring that all those in need can access high-quality, affordable public housing. We believe that public investment in housing is not only a moral obligation but also an economic imperative. By providing housing for those in need, we can stimulate the economy, create jobs, and ensure that every Wisconsin citizen has a safe, comfortable place to call home.

Championing Rent Control Legislation

The housing crisis, characterized by soaring rents, has left many families and individuals in a financially precarious position. Rent control legislation is an essential step towards rectifying this issue and protecting tenants from the unchecked profiteering of property owners. The Green Party strongly advocates for comprehensive rent control policies that shield tenants from the volatility of the housing market and ensure affordable, stable housing for all.

We understand that the landlord-tenant relationship is inherently imbalanced, with landlords holding much of the power. Through rent control, we can help restore balance, giving tenants the security they need without fear of sudden, unmanageable rent hikes. It is vital to prioritize the right to housing over the profits of landlords, especially at a time when housing affordability is in crisis.

Rather than viewing housing as a commodity, we believe it should be seen primarily as a basic human necessity. To this end, rent control is not merely a regulatory measure, but a fundamental human rights issue. The Green Party is committed to pushing for strong, fair rent control legislation that genuinely serves and protects the people of Wisconsin.

Ending De Facto Segregation

Wisconsin's cities, like many across America, are deeply segregated. This segregation is not only morally wrong but also harmful to our social fabric, perpetuating inequalities in education, health, and economic opportunities. The Green Party is committed to policies that promote integration and equality, ending the de facto segregation that plagues our cities.

We know that this vision for housing is not just aspirational, but achievable. If you believe, as we do, that housing is a human right, then we invite you to join us at our Spring Gathering on May 20, 2023. There, you will have the opportunity to meet like-minded people, discuss our platform, and learn how you can contribute to the Green Party's efforts to make a difference.

The Spring Gathering will be a day of inspiration, action, and solidarity. It's a chance to make your voice heard, to help shape the future of housing policy in Wisconsin, and to stand up for the right to decent, affordable housing for all.

Don't miss out on this important event. RSVP today and join us as we work together to make the vision of housing as a human right a reality in Wisconsin. It's a cause worth fighting for – and with your help, we know we can make a difference.

RSVP HERE