Jewish Theological Seminary Tenants Win First Round

by Vajra Kilgour

Tenants threatened with eviction by the Jewish Theological Seminary were given a breathing space thanks to Judge Joan Madden, who summarily dismissed the 15 cases in court on the grounds that the seminary's notices of nonrenewal were "fatally defective." But the seminary is appealing the decision, and seven more families will probably be taken to Housing Court as their leases expire.

The tenants are continuing their weekly demonstrations outside the seminary (northeast corner of Broadway and W. 122nd St.) on Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. They will hold another major demonstration there on graduation day, May 22, from 3 to 6 PM, when they will award the seminary an "Advanced Degree in Hypocrisy."

This is just two days after Tenant Lobby Day in Albany, and it's a golden opportunity to send another message to the landlords and legislators: we want rent regulations that protect all tenants.