Tanya Burkart, ACORN leader speaks at the House of Commons HUMA Committee on Financialization of Housing

Tanya Burkart, leader of ACORN from Brampton (Peel, Ontario), spoke at the House of Commons Standing Committee on the issue of financialization of housing yesterday. ACORN was invited as a witness to speak at the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities (in short called the HUMA Committee).

The HUMA Committee is currently reviewing the issue of financialization of housing – a growing phenomenon in Canada that has had devastating impacts on low- and moderate-income tenants.

Notice of the meeting here.

ACORN conducted a study to assess the impact of financialization of housing on low- and moderate-income tenants. This was part of a series of research reports that were put together by the Office of the Federal Housing Advocate constituted as mandated by the National Housing Strategy Act. In case you are interested in reading the report, see here: https://acorncanada.org/resources/canadian-human-rights-commission-financialization-of-housing/

Tanya has been living in a townhome complex that was earlier owned by Starlight Investments and now Boardwalk REIT. Alongwith highlighting the findings of the research and testimonies of some ACORN members struggling with big corporate landlords, Tanya shared her personal experience with Starlight and now Boardwalk.

Her presentation was extremely powerful. You can watch the session here:

https://www.ourcommons.ca/Committees/en/HUMA/Meetings

Unfortunately, due to other Parliament business, the committee members could not ask questions but the committee is considering additional time to be devoted on this important issue.

ACORN is demanding that the federal government immediately takes action and stops corporate landlords from acquiring affordable homes. Take action here