The lack of knowledge most people have when it comes to their housing rights is no surprise to me. The educational materials provided by housing authorities are numerous, difficult to understand, and not readily accessible. Because most people don't understand their rights, many are taken advantage of. In New York City's vicious real estate market, renters are often either not provided with the housing amenities required by law, are ignored, or are subject to harassment if they demand recourse. This, I believe is inherently related to the escalating problem of gentrification. 

The intent of my thesis is to provide New Yorkers with a tool they can use to become organized, informed, and capable of solving their housing problems.