The debate over Minneapolis eviction protections intensified after Mayor Jacob Frey vetoed an ordinance that would have extended pre-eviction notices, while renters and advocates continue calling for stronger housing protections.
Frida Tellez Mercado carried the weight of her entire apartment building when she stood inside the Hennepin County Government Center on Wednesday, March 12. The daughter of a single mother, she came with a translator and another story to tell, this one from a neighbor who could not risk being there herself.
“I’m the daughter of a single mother, and my mother, my brother and I live in an apartment together. We’ve lived there for three years,” Mercado said. “I’m currently involved in delivering food to my neighbors because these have been very difficult times for me, my family, and my community.”
Speaking through translator Rebecca Song, Mercado also read a statement from Laura Perez, a 10-year resident and mother of five.
“The other concern is not being able to pay our rent, and the worry of losing that one place that has afforded us protection and kept us safe during this occupation,” Mercado said, reading Perez’s words…