Tenants union fights for recognition, ‘respect’ at Atlanta subsidized housing complex

Tenants at Trestletree Village are organizing for a voice in their subsidized housing complex. They’ve had trouble getting management — and some homeowners in the neighborhood — to listen. Pictured from left to right: Shikia Snipes, Velissa Sims, Shikina Jackson, Tempestt Sims and Miracle Fletcher.

Stephannie Stokes / WABE

Tenants in subsidized housing often have little power, especially in cities like Atlanta, where affordable units are in high demand and waitlists at properties that offer assistance are long.

Despite that, a handful of tenants are organizing for a voice at their federally funded Section 8 apartments in southeast Atlanta.

Now they’re waiting for people to listen.