Local Activists Protest Against Unsafe DHA Housing; Demand Firing Of DHA Director

DURHAM, NC – Tensions today (Jan. 27) ran high as the unsafe living conditions experienced by residents of McDougald Terrace unearthed a number of issues the Durham Housing Authority (DHA) has failed to address.  The story of the horrible conditions of this housing community caught the attention of the nation as residents replayed scenes of carbon monoxide, a deadly gas that quietly and silently kills its victims, was left unchecked and allowed to accumulate in the residences throughout the development. 

There were also stories of sewage spills, pest infestation, appliances that would not work, and an extreme lack of concern by DHA, who was in charge of overseeing such repairs.  The McDougald Terrace residents were forced out of their apartments while repairs were made to their homes.  After being forced out, families began to look for a sense of direction as they found themselves lacking a sense of wellbeing. 

Today, local African American activist groups – Jesus Uniting Souls To Increase Community Engagement (JUSTICE) Ministration, and the Stop Killing Us (SKU) Solutions Campaign –  decided to make their voices heard by Anthony Scott, the head of DHA, along with his colleagues at the Protest Against Unsafe and Unfair DHA Housing.  The group’s effort was centered on community improvements not only to McDougald Terrace but also to all housing controlled by DHA. (Spectacular Magazine was #OnTheScene – be sure to scroll down to view the report)

Their demands were rooted in the belief that the quality of life for anyone living in these communities should expect the DHA to uphold it and ensure the ability of its residents to succeed and walk with the understanding that their homes were safe and livable.  The groups explained that it was impossible for children in these homes to focus on their schoolwork while rats ran across the floor. 

The demands expressed included the fair and impartial inspection of all DHA units, free medical check-ups and treatment of those affected by the conditions, maintenance repairs to be completed within 48 hours, temporary housing for all residents affected by the repairs, and the fair, impartial, and independent investigation on the negligence of the larger issue of unsafe housing conditions. 

The voices of those heard today echoed the deep-seated understanding that the DHA has been oppressing its residents for years before the McDougaldTerrace example was “brought to light.”  They believe the negligence displayed by the authority called into question comes from systemic racism in the community.  While Durham residents sleep in tents beside church buildings, it seems the offices of those with the ability to make a difference remain quiet, as the leaders of these activist groups demand their voices be heard.

For more information or to join the protest, click here.

#OnTheScene: Protest Against Unfair and Unsafe DHA Housing

Feature photo credit: Tyran Williams

Video Editor: Bre Jamison