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Why the Student Tenant Union Movement Is Transforming Appalachia Housing

Update A New Wave of Student Tenant Unions in Appalachia Across the United States, a movement is emerging that reshapes the way students view their rights as tenants, particularly in regions like Appalachia. At Morehead State University in Kentucky, students are rallying to form tenant unions that promise to elevate their voices regarding living conditions on campus. This grassroots effort is not just about individual grievances; it represents the culmination of a nationwide trend that underscores the need for better housing conditions for student tenants. Recognizing Students as Tenants Allison 'Al' Belter and Madi Reffitt, members of the Morehead State Tenants' Union, are leading the charge. They emphasize that students are not merely occupants; they are tenants who deserve the same rights and protections as any other renters. Their movement is rooted in the collective understanding of their power as a large tenant body, with over 2,700 students housed in university dorms. The union aims to compel university administration to address severe issues, including mold infestation, pest problems, and insufficient sanitation services. As Belter states, "We have a lot of power, and we want to remind other students that we can use that." This sentiment is echoed across the country where student tenant unions are gaining momentum, proving that advocacy can lead to substantial changes in campus policies and practices. Historical Context: The Legacy of Labor Organizing The state of Kentucky has a rich history of labor unions born from a backdrop of industrial struggles, primarily focused on coal mining. The establishment of tenants' unions, as seen in the actions of the Kentucky Tenants’ organizations, are an evolution of this legacy. They separate themselves from traditional labor unions by focusing on housing issues rather than workplace conditions but adopt similar collective strategies to advocate for their rights. This shift mirrors the growing trend of organizing that emphasizes local conditions and addressing tenant-specific issues. As Josh Poe, an organizer with the Kentucky Tenants Union, notes, "You’ve got a workers’ union, a bunch of people who work in the same place… the tenants’ union would be a bunch of people who have the same landlord, who are working together to make asks of that landlord to improve their housing situation." This approach builds on the established norms of labor advocacy, but with a focus on the unique challenges tenants face. Pioneering Achievements: Successes from Kentucky and Beyond In recent years, the success of tenant unions has manifested in a wide array of achievements, from advocating for the retention of existing housing rights to pushing back against rent hikes. The Lexington Tenants Union recently gained recognition for establishing Kentucky’s first majority tenant union, a significant milestone that spurred further actions across the state, including an ordinance to counter discrimination by landlords. Elsewhere, similar strategies have yielded success. The Colorado Springs Tenants Union (COST) adopted building-specific organizing tactics to rally tenants against poor living conditions. Their efforts resonate with the approaches of groups across the nation that demonstrate that collective economic power can lead to significant reforms. As illustrated by anecdotal evidence, when tenants band together, landlords often respond promptly to their demands, such as repairs and maintenance improvements. The Importance of Building Alliances While tenant unions advocate for immediate concerns like repairs and maintenance, they also contribute to broader systemic change. Unions such as those in Kentucky highlight the necessity of regional collaboration between like-minded organizations to challenge landlord behaviors and advocate for equitable housing. Localized strategies are essential in areas without the strong regulatory protections found in larger urban centers, making the observations of tenants even more vital. Belter's statement about student organizing encapsulates this sentiment: "We don’t have to just suck it up for two to four years in bad housing conditions." Their resolve stands as a testimony to the power of grassroots organizing that draws knowledge from historical precedence and contemporary movements. What Lies Ahead: Future Trends and Challenges The increasing visibility of student tenant unions might signal a difficulty for universities to ignore ongoing student grievances regarding housing. The success of these organizations could lead to a shift in demands that prioritize student voices in governance. However, challenges lie ahead as state legislation sometimes undermines local tenant organizing efforts, particularly in regions like Kentucky. Legislative attempts to curtail local protections, like those seen where state legislation nullified the Lexington ordinance, pose ongoing challenges that tenant unions must navigate carefully. However, the resilience and growing inertia of movement-driven groups indicate that tenants, especially students, will not be easily deterred. A Call to Action: Joining the Movement for Change This emerging movement in student housing does not just represent the struggles of those at Morehead State University; it is reflective of a national conversation about housing rights and tenant advocacy. As students unite to make their voices heard, it becomes imperative for other campuses and communities to follow suit. Supporting these unions and joining the call for improved housing conditions is a way forward for justice and equity in educational environments. By amplifying their demands and increasing their collective bargaining power, students have an opportunity to challenge the status quo and ensure their living conditions meet a baseline of safety and dignity. This movement deserves both attention and support, as it paves the way for future generations to inhabit living spaces that uphold their rights without compromise.