HAC at Housing California 2026

Written By Ali Sapirman

Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Through Litigation

HAC was proud to participate in the Housing California Annual Conference in Sacramento from March 18–20. The energy in the room reflected the stakes of this moment for housing in California — from a packed gubernatorial forum featuring candidates Tom Steyer, Tony Thurmond, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Betty Yee (moderated by CalMatters' Ben Christopher) to deep-dive sessions on policy, finance, and advocacy strategy.

I had the opportunity to moderate a panel titled "Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing Through Litigation," joined by Shashi Hanuman (Public Interest Law Project), Thomas Mayhew (Farella Braun + Martel LLP), Leora Tanjuatco Ross (Yimby Action), and HAC Board Member Rick Bonilla. Together we explored how litigation is becoming an essential tool for holding jurisdictions accountable to their fair housing obligations — and how legal strategy and advocacy can work in tandem to expand housing opportunity in communities that have historically excluded it.

Advancing an affordable housing bond remains one of HAC's top priorities this year, and conversations at the conference reinforced the broad coalition support behind that effort. Moments like Housing California remind us why this work matters — and who we're doing it with. HAC is energized heading into the rest of the legislative session, and we look forward to keeping our members informed as things move forward.

Ali Sapirman

Ali joined HAC in February 2022, having previously worked at San José Councilmember David Cohen’s office, Working Partnerships USA, and the South Bay Labor Council. An organizer at heart, they began their organizing work in the community colleges to create better living and working conditions for students, faculty, and staff across California. Ali also serves as an active member of the Santa Clara Democratic Party, and enjoys reading philosophy, rock climbing, yoga, and the company of their three cats.

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