GMHC Leader Launches 'Listen First' Housing Pledge

Manuel Rivera calls on NYC communities to prioritize listening, stability, and action for housing justice.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:21pm

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A minimalist neon outline of a simple house shape, with a heartbeat pulsing through the lines, against a dark background, conceptually representing the intersection of housing and public health.A glowing neon symbol of housing and health, pulsing with the energy of community-driven change.NYC Today

Manuel Rivera, a longtime housing advocate and board leader at GMHC, has launched a new 'Listen First' pledge calling on communities across New York City to prioritize listening, stability, and action in the fight for housing justice and public health.

Why it matters

Housing insecurity and homelessness have long been major public health issues, especially for vulnerable populations. Rivera's pledge aims to elevate community voices and drive tangible solutions to address these interconnected challenges.

The details

Rivera's 'Listen First' pledge encourages organizations, policymakers, and community members to commit to three key principles: 1) Actively listen to the needs and experiences of those facing housing instability, 2) Prioritize housing stability as a foundation for improved health outcomes, and 3) Take immediate action to implement community-driven solutions.

  • Rivera launched the 'Listen First' pledge on April 15, 2026.

The players

Manuel Rivera

A longtime housing advocate and board leader at GMHC, a leading New York City non-profit focused on HIV/AIDS services and community health.

GMHC

A non-profit organization in New York City that provides services and advocacy related to HIV/AIDS and community health.

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What they’re saying

“Housing is healthcare, and we must listen to those most impacted to drive real change. This pledge is a call to action for all New Yorkers to prioritize stable, affordable homes as the foundation for healthier communities.”

— Manuel Rivera, Housing Advocate and GMHC Board Leader

What’s next

Rivera plans to host a series of community listening sessions across New York City to gather feedback and build support for the 'Listen First' pledge in the coming months.

The takeaway

Rivera's 'Listen First' pledge underscores the critical link between housing security and public health, emphasizing the need to elevate community voices and implement holistic, resident-driven solutions to address these systemic challenges.