Georgia State University purchased property in the Turnerfield area and they plan to redevelop the land for housing, greenspace, and a baseball field. Students and local activist groups, like the Housing Justice League, are concerned about what this redevelopment will mean for current residents. There has been no formal statement from President Becker, nor formal dialogue with community leaders and it seems that the university is unprepared for the responsibilities that arise from such a purchase.
Emotions were high when protesters gathered in President Becker's office for a sit in, about one month ago. Members of the Housing Justice League, residents, and students rallied together singing and chanting. The residents there in Mr.Becker's office said that they gathered so that he could see the face of displacement. They gathered so that they would not be statistics but the physical embodiment of this certain injustice. Senator Vincent Fort spoke out against the university's lack of action and commended the students of Georgia State for furthering the legacy of activism that GSU is known for. Yet, even after the sit in, the board and university officials have not called any official meetings.
Students and residents confronted Dr. Becker, again, during the university's annual alumni dinner in front of an audience of major donors. The students and residents raised their voices, singing," Dr.Becker can't you see, students and community, demanding equity as one." There is only one thing that this community requests and its a Community Benefits Agreement. The students, residents, and Housing Justice League want the developers to acknowledge the responsibility of ensuring that whatever modifications are made to this area, Peoplestown, that they are in line with what the current community desires. They want a binding document that will prevent further unnecessary displacement and secure affordable housing for remaining residents.
"Our tuition is paying for gentrification" students cry out as they table on campus to spread awareness. These students, who represent various organizations on campus say,"Becker hasn't seen the last of us! We won't stop until he meets with the Turnerfield Community Benefits Coalition. We won't stop until the university signs a binding agreement with these affected residents!" A student speak out will take place Thursday, November 17th at 6pm at the GSU Library Plaza.To sign the petition and raise your voice against injustice click here.
