September 19, 2025
Contact: Claudia Rojas, [email protected]
New Virginia Majority to Hold Anti-Displacement Press Conference in Richmond
Richmond, Va. - On September 22, 2025 at 5 p.m., New Virginia Majority (NVM) will hold a press conference alongside partner organizations and affected residents outside Richmond City Hall (900 E. Broad Street, Richmond, Va.) to advocate for anti-displacement measures up for a vote (proactive residential rental inspection program, a resident-led plan for Gilpin Court redevelopment, and prioritizing anti-rent gouging legislation).
Tenants across the city have organized and brought solutions that would help prevent evictions by preserving and caring for existing housing stock, prioritizing the voices of community members over corporations, and ensuring that tenants are protected from predatory landlords seeking to increase profits. Currently, Richmond City Council has not delivered actionable policy to address community concerns about displacement.
Emeka Anyawelchi, a resident of the 3rd District, said, “Anti rent gouging is important because there are people like me whose rent will get raised $200, but the paychecks will not. As someone who is on disability and had their housing voucher taken away, it’s important to have protections when government assistance fails to prevent displacement.”
"When I recently renewed my lease, my rent went up from $1,100 to $1,400, a $300 increase. The conditions of my apartment haven't improved to justify this increase,” said Rosmeri, a resident of the 9th District who chose not to use their last name.
“Anti-rent gouging, public housing preservation, and rental inspection programs are NOT separate issues — they’re part of one solution. Together, these tools protect tenants, keep housing affordable and of quality, and make progress towards improving the racist-littered history of Richmond housing. The circumstances could not be more critical,” said Kashish Pillai, NVM housing justice policy analyst.
To speak with a NVM organizer or member, contact Claudia Rojas, [email protected].
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New Virginia Majority builds power in working-class communities of color, in immigrant communities, among LGBTQ people, women, youth, and progressives across the Commonwealth. We organize for racial and economic justice through large-scale political education, mobilization and advocacy around dozens of issues. We fight for a Virginia that is just, democratic and environmentally sustainable. For more information, visit our website and follow us on X and Facebook at @NewVAMajority.