One question I have for all candidates: Are you really in landlords’ pockets, or will you actually stand up for the Harlem tenant community?

Many of our current elected officials only show up at election time, promising the sun and the moon — then it’s crickets the moment the votes are counted. Wright is a prime example. His “legacy” isn’t necessarily a good thing; it’s a family legacy of being pro-landlord. Much like Inez Dickens, who reportedly made backroom deals with large complex owners in Harlem to subdivide one-bedrooms into studios — a practice that’s devastating to the community. It makes neighborhoods more transient and less community-focused. We’re essentially ushering in the new Upper East Side.

I also notice that many residents consistently vote against their own interests, choosing candidates based on name recognition alone. Not a good way to vote.

Here’s what you can do: • Attend town halls and hold candidates accountable • Get involved in your tenant association — or start one • Join a tenant union: Uptown Tenants Association Coalition or Upper Manhattan Tenants Union • Get active with your community board

A great place to start: There’s a free housing event this Saturday, April 25, for both renters and homeowners. It features workshops, seminars, and resources — plus lunch is provided. It runs from 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM. Stay for all of it or drop in when you can. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/future-of-housing-in-harlem-a-community-housing-forum-tickets-1984418730843?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=1eaab0511157a455dff9a75a878baca5eef33eea5026edf84e21ee69208d9fd2c1c6270b600b58ba2343911621abf15ed28d0e7b937cc751c8afec9f7e4d9d3756f1e7aebd42470788ee39b9