From the Schenectady County Human Rights Commission
On February 4, 2025, the Schenectady County Human Rights Commission joined with a group of advocates from the Rotterdam's Messiah Lutheran Church, led by Executive Director and Pastor Reverend Dustin Longmire, in Albany at the New York State Capitol. This day of advocacy centered on supporting the Faith-Based Affordable Housing Act, a crucial initiative aimed at addressing New York's ongoing housing crisis. In attendance were several faith-based leaders, state representatives, and community organizers that shared powerful messages about the importance of affordable housing.
Following the rally, Odellia Purdie, Executive Assistant to the Human Rights Commission, met with Rajnikant 'Raj' Ishmael, Schenectady County's newly appointed County Legislator. Raj took time to speak with Katie Snively, a board member of the Rotterdam Community Center, and Ms. Purdie—about their experiences with housing insecurity. Katie’s story was that of the struggle of young, hardworking individuals who are unable to achieve financial independence due to the high cost of housing. Ms. Purdie spoke on her own housing challenges due to past experiences with domestic abuse, as well as her friend’s story regarding her own significant barriers when it came to securing safe, affordable housing.
Their stories and past experiences of feeling stuck in unsafe environments because they lack affordable options, while tragic, are those that many people face. The Commission emphasized that the community is not only dealing with a crisis of affordability but also one of safety, where there are no alternatives. This shows that there is a need for more than just affordable housing, but housing that is also safe. Efforts by Faith-based organizations, like the Messiah Lutheran Church, are a solution as they are willing to meet those needs.
The stories shared that day, as emotionally charged as they were, brought to light the urgent need for action on housing issues. It is the work of the Human Rights Commission to share those stories and to advocate for the societal change that will make stories like those a thing of the past.