Threats of Displacement & Unwanted Gentrification
in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is  US territory, but it's inhabitants are Caribbean people finding ways to confront the same challenges we face throughout the region. 

Threats of Displacement
& Unwanted Gentrification
in Puerto Rico

Learn how our Caribbean brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico used an innovative land trust to provide communal rights, housing stability and economic opportunities. 

What is it?

  • An innovative land trust created by the residents of Caño Martín Peña communities near San Juan
  • An alternative means of securing land tenure for informal settlements and vulnerable communities
  • A tool to lead the development of prime urban land near the capital, while protecting residents from displacement
  • An opportunity for the grassroots people to be present, active and as a protagonist of decision-making that can have an effect on future generations. 
  • A means of implementing a Comprehensive Development and Land Use Plan that provides for dredging of the canal and restoration of the ecosystem.

Benefits of the Trust

Provides Housing stability to the community across generations.

The Trust works on rehousing and new housing projects for the benefit of members.

The trust solves the historical problem of lack of legal access to land and gives credit and permits necessary to improve houses.

Improved Economic Outcomes for members of the community

Through the rental of vacant plots and other strategies, private investment is stimulated, which strengthens the economy of families.

Ways to Help

Explore a Land Trust for Your Own Community

How secure is your community's future?

Explore the possibility of establishing a land trust with your people.

If you are interested in exploring this option, members of our network in Puerto Rico will guide you. 

Connect with Caribbean Brothers and Sisters in Puerto Rico

Let the Caño Martin Peña Community Guide You

The more we connect as people, the more we are empowered. 

Reach out to us via email with your questions about setting up your own creative land trust.

Join the Conversation

Share words of encouragement for the people of Puerto Rico in their efforts for sustainability in the face of the ravages of climate change and disaster capitalism. 

Get Connected

In the tumultuous aftermath of disasters, it is easy to feel isolated and alone, but you are not.

We, a network of Caribbean-wide community organizers who stand in solidarity with those affected the twin threats of the climate crises and disaster capitalism, a phenomenon that exacerbates the suffering of vulnerable communities.

We want you to know that your stories matter. We are here to listen, to support, and to amplify your voices.

We believe that together, we can challenge the forces of disaster capitalism and advocate for more sustainable, inclusive and equitable decision-making.

Join us in solidarity. Share your experiences and let’s build strong communities that thrive together.

Offer Suppport

As the wider world braces for the climate change, Caribbean communities are already struggling with its effects. Small local communities, small scale farmers and coastal communities are disproportionately affected. Political decisions, power dynamics and laws often compound the catastrophes and silence bottom up solutions.

There are ways in which you can help.

Responses

Barbuda

Belize

Cayman Islands

Colombia

Grenada

Haiti

Puerto Rico

Challenges

Barbuda

Belize

Cayman Islands

Colombia

Grenada

Haiti

Jamaica

Puerto Rico

Partners

Legal Associates

Institutional Support