Dear Columbia University Students:
Many of you are aware of Columbia's proposed expansion into Harlem. While Columbia claims to have the best interests of the Harlem business and residential community at heart, as individuals who provide significant monetary support to the University, we wish to hold Columbia accountable for the displacement of cultural institutions present in Harlem. An article entitled "Floridita Owner says CU Talks Ended" which appeared in the April 17th issue of "Columbia Spectator," states that Columbia has ceased to negotiate over "the future of Floridita" due to alleged nonpayment of "rent, water charges, and real estate taxes."
Anyone who has frequented "Floridita" knows what a special establishment it truly is. Its character, affordability, and authenticity, all speak to what is so beloved in Harlem and which the Columbia gentrification threatens to destroy.
The purpose of this petition is two-fold: 1. To encourage Columbia students to actively scrutinize how the University plans to use our tuition money. 2. To shame real estate officials for Columbia University into resuming negotiations with "Floridita." If you agree with the following statement, please sign our petition, to be delivered to Columbia Vice President for Real Estate, Phil Silverman:
We, the students of Columbia University demand that negotiations resume between Columbia and the Harlem diner "Floridita," located at 125th and Broadway. We demand that Columbia University uphold the principles that we expect from a respected institution of higher learning including: a commitment to preserving economic and social justice in the larger New York City community.
We value the continued presence of neighborhood establishments such as "Floridita" and believe that Columbia University has the integrity of spirit as well as the means to forgive any debt that "Floridita" may or may not owe. As individuals who provide significant monetary support to our University, we request that "Floridita" remain an integral part of Harlem's vibrant cultural diversity.
Signed,
concerned students
