Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia meets with Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada to discuss Mayor’s HOME Initiative
On Monday, December 15, more than 35 members of the Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia gathered with Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada to discuss the HOME initiative proposed by Mayor Cherelle Parker. The meeting, hosted by Esperanza and organized by Rev. Rubén Ortiz, Vice President of Faith and Capacity, Rev. Luis Cortés, and Councilwoman Lozada, aimed to foster dialogue and address the questions, needs, and concerns of clergy representing Philadelphia’s Latine communities.
Rev. Luis Cortés, Founder, President, and CEO of Esperanza, emphasized the importance of this conversation for the future of Latine neighborhoods. Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada, representative of Philadelphia’s 7th Council District, which includes many predominantly Latine communities, provided an overview of the HOME initiative and responded to questions from attendees, stressing the need for intentional development.
Rev. Cortés highlighted the significance of the meeting, stating:
“Having the Councilwoman meet with the Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia and spend meaningful time discussing our community’s needs, especially the threat of displacement, with more than 35 clergy members was a strong first step in organizing to protect Latine investments in community facilities, small businesses, housing, and education across our neighborhoods.”
Councilwoman Lozada echoed the commitment to collaboration and equity in housing development:
“Honored to have had the opportunity to speak with members of the Hispanic Clergy regarding the state of the 7th Council District and affordable housing. The Mayor‘s HOME Initiative will create great opportunities for first-time homebuyers and working families, but in the 7th Council District, we must be intentional about the type of development we support and prioritize current homeowner preservation programs and those who live with fixed incomes of or below 50% AMI. Looking forward to continuing the conversation with Mayor Cherelle Parker, her administration, and community members to move the 7th Council District and the City of Philadelphia’s housing crisis forward because building affordable housing that responds to the needs of those who have generationally lived there creates stronger communities.”
The meeting marked an important step toward ensuring that housing policies reflect the realities and aspirations of Philadelphia’s Latine neighborhoods.
