Attorney Norman Siegel to serve as counsel

Harlem-based advocacy group VOTE People will announce its plan to defeat the rezoning of 125th Street. An organization working with communities facing political, economic and social injustice, VOTE People is launching a concerted effort to oppose the "River-to River" plan, the city's brazen attempt to take over the most legendary street in Harlem. The drastic rezoning plan threatens Harlem's historic character and unique cultural landscape, allowing reckless development of luxury high-rise condominiums in a community facing a severe shortage of housing for the middle class and the working poor.

Harlem residents have vehemently rejected the city's proposal in town hall meetings. Citing the mass displacement of current residents and businesses that will result if the plan is approved, VOTE People Executive Director Craig Schley condemned the "River-to-River" plan as "the Katrina-fication [of Harlem], done by the swipe of a pen rather than a hurricane." In a position paper to be released on January 24th, VOTE People calls for an immediate halt to the rezoning plan; outlines the destructive social, cultural, economic, and environmental effects of the city's proposal; and challenges the city to join VOTE People in developing a new plan that reflects the rights and wishes of Harlem residents.

Attorney Norman Siegel will speak about his role in the effort. "People who want to remain in Harlem should have the right to do so," he said. "Currently the plan is not acceptable and needs to be opposed."

WHO: Norman Siegel, civil-rights attorney and former director of the NYCLU; Craig Schley, Executive Director, VOTE People; Concerned Harlem Residents

WHAT: Harlem-based advocacy group VOTE People (Voices Of The Everyday People) announces its plan to defeat the rezoning of 125th Street.

WHEN: Thursday, January 24, 2008; 11:00 A.M.

WHERE: Salem United Methodist Church; 2190 Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Boulevard (Seventh Avenue @ 129th Street), New York, NY 10027

Click here to visit VOTE People