On Monday, 19 May, a court bailiff carried out the eviction of a family in Sepolia, whose child has a 67% disability. The father had fallen behind on some payments during the ongoing crisis. This heartless move sparked a powerful reaction from the local community and supportive groups, who quickly organised a neighbourhood protest.
Neighbours were the first to voice their outrage upon hearing the news of the eviction. Within hours, a large crowd gathered in Sepolia, chanting slogans against the decision and standing up for everyone’s right to a home.
Local residents point out that not only is the child disabled, but the father also has a 67% disability. He has worked for decades in the printing industry, exposed to heavy and hazardous conditions, with over 10,000 heavy-industry work credits, which has severely affected his health.
Local groups and residents unite to demand justice
The protest took place at 7 pm, with participation from the local association “Anagenisi,” the Federation of Greek Women, and many local residents. Demonstrators shouted, “Shame, shame will be written in history for those who evict children with disabilities,” making it clear that they will keep fighting for the family’s justice.
“The scene this morning was heartbreaking – a disabled child forced out of their home, standing on the pavement with just suitcases and a few bags containing all their belongings. This large demonstration showed the strength of our community’s outcry, from the neighbourhoods of Sepolia and Thymarakia. This brutal raid took place in the early hours of the morning, showing the government’s cruelty and cowardice. They only manage to push through such disgraceful policies with repression forces in the early hours,” said Theodosis Benatos, president of the Sepolia association.
“They evicted a poor family – our neighbours – with a child, Spyros, who has a 67% disability, because his father couldn’t keep up with certain payments during the crisis. Their home was auctioned off without their knowledge, while government ministers knew about their case from us but chose not to act. This is the harsh result of their policies,” added Benatos.
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