Supporters rally for anti-foreclosure attorney

Vanessa Fluker with U.S. Rep. John Conyers at March 25 rally. WW photo: Kris Hamel

Supporters came out the evening of March 25 to an emergency rally and fundraiser for beloved people’s attorney, Vanessa G. Fluker of Detroit. Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Robert Colombo Jr. recently sanctioned and fined Fluker and a client $12,200, calling her anti-foreclosure appeal “frivolous” and “vexatious.”

Fluker is a nationally known and well-respected attorney with a reputation as a tireless fighter for homeowners and others facing foreclosures and evictions. She is a leader in the Moratorium NOW! Coalition to Stop Foreclosures, Evictions and Utility Shutoffs and utilizes her considerable legal skills to challenge the racist, predatory banks and lending institutions.

The event was emceed by the Rev. Ed Rowe at his Central United Methodist Church in downtown Detroit. In addition to Rowe, U.S. Congressperson John Conyers Jr. and Martha Scott, a Wayne County Commissioner and former state senator, spoke out in strong support of Fluker. Both politicians have long recognized her advocacy on behalf of poor and working people victimized by banks.

Conyers announced he would be hosting fundraising receptions in New York and Washington, D.C., to help raise the approximately $18,000 appeal bond required to fight the sanctions. Scott said a resolution to stop sheriff’s foreclosure sales in Wayne County will be introduced to the Board of Commissioners on April 7.

Steve Babson of the People Before Banks Coalition spoke, as did Fluker and her attorney, Jerry Goldberg.

“This isn’t just about me and this particular homeowner,” said Fluker. “This is about every borrower who finds themself in this situation. It’s about a judge deterring advocacy for the people. It’s a fight for the people.”

Goldberg stated: “Most judges don’t like Vanessa. She works 84 hours a week to help poor people. Most judges choose the banks instead of the people. This judge made up his mind from the beginning to go after Vanessa.”

Goldberg showed the audience the three-inch-thick motion for reconsideration he filed on Fluker’s behalf and told how Judge Colombo had received a home mortgage and two subsequent refinancings from the very bank involved in the case for which Fluker was fined. “He must recuse himself if there is even an appearance of potential impropriety,” said Goldberg.

For information on how to make a donation to Fluker’s appeal fund, visit www.moratorium-mi.org.