Venus Chapman is organizing community campaigns to protect renters across Toledo. Her work helps residents take direct legal and organizing action against poor living conditions. She stated that people must act before conditions deteriorate further.
“We are in a renting crisis,” Chapman said.
Chapman pointed to rising housing costs, a lack of affordable housing, and neglect from property owners. Her father, McKinney Chapman Jr., fought for civil rights. She said her drive comes naturally from him.
“Executive Towers was a great awakening to me,” Chapman said.
Major water leaks and mold at her former apartment building led Chapman to organize a tenant union at Executive Towers. The apartment complex is located on Collingwood Boulevard in Toledo.
She noticed her neighbors did not know their legal protections. They did not know how to handle complex building issues.
“Housing court, housing code, and what tenants can do was just very challenging,” Chapman said.
Chapman started by educating the union members at the complex. She now teaches renters throughout the city to help them advocate for better living conditions.
She works alongside lawyers, housing non-profit groups, and other local activists. The team scouts properties and helps tenants build specific action plans.
Options include taking landlords to court or forming new unions. The choices remain entirely with the residents.
“It’s not a matter of us going in and deciding for them, the tenants have to decide for themselves,” Chapman said.
Chapman took on this work because municipal codes are not always enforced. A City of Toledo spokesperson previously stated the city lacks capacity to manage private property issues except during emergencies.
This situation leaves many residents to seek repairs alone. She said she regularly observes property owner neglect.
Tenant unions are organized groups of residents who pool resources to negotiate with landlords. These associations help members understand housing codes and address building maintenance issues.
People who want to reach Chapman and her team can call (313) 437-1102. Inquiries can also be sent by email to [email protected].
