Jerome Jackson was a hero in the fight against unjust evictions – not only for himself but for all families defending their homes, in his neighborhood and beyond. He was always there for Detroit Eviction Defense, which he said was “family.”
Wayne County Health & Human Services HAD a program “to provide homeownership opportunity for the disabled.” Jerome Jackson was lured into buying a home under that program — until the County and the Community Living Service walked away from their promise to subsidize his mortgage, leaving Jerome facing foreclosure. He has been fighting to save the house in Inkster, Michigan he had made his own. Wayne County and Community Living Services tore up their agreements to support mortgage payments under a program they talked him into in 2004. Then Fannie Mae relentlessly moved to evict.
In September 2013 DED organized a rally with dinner and music for Jackson’s defense. His sister, Jettowynne Jones, helped with the cooking. Over 100 people attended!
People’s Hearing on Disabled Housing Rights
On December 18th supporters gave powerful testimony at People’s Hearing on Disabled Housing Rights. Speakers and participants had a strong message for Wayne County and CLS: that a system built on broken promises and exploitation has to change. Martha Scott, Wayne County Commissioner; Lisa Franklin, President of Warriors on Wheels of Metro Detroit; Mary Byrne, Assistant Professor, Marygrove College; people’s attorney Vanessa Fluker; and people with disabilities all gave important insights into the situation.
The battle took a terrible toll on Jerome, but even as his health failed, he fended off eviction and came out to support others facing eviction.
We will always be inspired by his strength and leadership.
