Our Work

Through the grassroots of The Dayton Tenant Union, we have worked to elevate tenant voices, assisted tenants with legal support, assisted with the emergent needs that tenants face, and continue to advocate for improved systemic practices that perpetuate unfair treatment for tenants. Our advocacy efforts are separated into four primary focus areas: Actions/Advocacy, Community Education, New Systems, and State/Regional efforts.

Check out what we've done!

Formation of DTU

In the fall of 2023, tenants in Dayton, Ohio, began to mobilize around housing issues and concerns that stemmed from horrible housing conditions, unjust evictions and landlord practices, lack of enforcement of tenant protections, and unfair practices in eviction and escrow hearings.

Advocacy for City Housing Funds

https://www.wdtn.com/as-seen-on-2-news/dayton-tenant-union-fights-for-funding-through-issue-9/

Push for tenant representation

https://www.whio.com/news/local/dayton-gets-real-dayton-looking-renew-tax-funding-plan-housing-improvements/ENQJL6LATJCMPOXGH4AN7TM5QM/

Policy Efforts

According to the Eviction Lab, eviction rates are rising around the country. Ohio ranks as the 26th highest eviction rate state in the country. Speaking about the rate of evictions in Dayton, Weber said eviction occurs often because a tenant isn't informed about how to navigate the courtroom.

A Dayton woman's housing journey points to the importance of fairness in the courtroom - ThinkTV

Our Community

The Dayton Tenant Union comprises residents and wonderful folks from all walks of life. We use our community gifts and assets to change systems and lives around us.

Tenant Education Fair

This fantastic event was organized by outstanding students in Sinclair's Social Change class under the direction of Professors Amaha Selassie, Kathleen Gish, and Kathy Rowell. In collaboration with DTU, students hosted an amazing tenant education fair loaded with information and resources for tenants in Montgomery County!