“Together We Win”: Daniela Harvey on Fighting for Tenants’ Rights in Sacramento

Daniela Harvey serves as an organizer within the Sacramento Valley Tenants Union, a grassroots entity dedicated to empowering tenants across Sacramento by addressing varied housing challenges including eviction, food insecurity, and rental support. Established in January 2024, this entirely volunteer organization relies on dues from approximately 50 members, offering free membership for unhoused individuals and sliding scale options for students and the unemployed. Harvey, who began her role in September, plays a crucial part in informing tenants of their rights, conducting Tenant Power Study Groups, and canvassing neighborhoods facing eviction threats. The Sacramento Valley Tenants Union distinguishes itself by prioritizing collective tenant action rather than following traditional nonprofit models. They facilitate workshops bi-monthly, aiming to instill confidence among tenants about their rights while building community solidarity against problematic landlords. This unique approach emphasizes tenant empowerment and communication, allowing individuals to navigate their housing situations more effectively, fostering a stronger fight against injustices.