Subject: Clarification of Filing Status and Purpose of Formal Organization

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I am writing on behalf of the California Tenants Association to clarify our position and provide context regarding our decision to move forward with certain organizational filings.

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Legal Standing of Tenant Unions

Under both federal and California state law, tenant unions are not required to register as formal organizations or nonprofit entities in order to legally exist or to exercise their right to organize. Tenants have the guaranteed right to meet, assemble, advocate, and collectively negotiate with landlords and property managers without needing government approval or nonprofit status. This protection is rooted in tenant rights legislation and is an important safeguard for residents across the state.

Therefore, as a union, our existence and operations are fully valid and enforceable with or without filing as an organization or nonprofit.

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Why We Chose to File

Although not required, our union has made the decision to establish certain organizational filings. We did this for several important reasons:

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1. Demonstrating Seriousness and Commitment – By voluntarily formalizing our structure, we send a clear signal to landlords, management companies, government officials, and partner organizations that our association is firmly established, accountable, and serious about our work.

2. Strengthening Accountability and Transparency – With filings in place, we are able to maintain records, hold elections, and operate under clear bylaws that guide our work. This strengthens confidence among tenants and supporters that our union operates with integrity and professionalism.

3. Expanding Opportunities for Financial Support – While tenant unions can operate without outside funding, organizational filings open doors for us to apply for grants, donations, and other forms of financial assistance. These resources will allow us to produce educational materials, host tenant trainings, cover necessary operational costs, and expand our advocacy work for the benefit of all members.

4. Building Long-Term Sustainability – Formalizing our structure ensures that our work does not end with one generation of leaders. It lays the foundation for a sustainable organization that can carry on the mission of tenant rights protection well into the future.

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What This Means for Tenants

Our decision to file does not change our core identity: we remain, first and foremost, a union of tenants standing together to defend our rights. Filing does not replace or override the fundamental fact that tenant power comes from tenants themselves. It simply adds another tool to help us succeed.

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With this step, we are better positioned to:

• Engage with city and county officials,

• Access training and resources from partner organizations,

• Ensure financial transparency for any funds we receive,

• And demonstrate to landlords and management that we operate from a position of strength and legitimacy.

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Closing

We want to reassure every member and supporter that filing as an organization is not about compliance with a legal requirement, but rather a conscious decision to strengthen our movement. Our union will always be guided by the voices of tenants, and our mission will never waver.

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We sincerely thank you for your time, support, and recognition of the importance of this clarification. Together, we will continue to protect tenant rights, improve housing conditions, and build a stronger community for all residents.

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Respectfully,

D Nash Stabolito DD PhD
President
California Tenants Association