Let's Clear the Record: Empowering Tenants through Eviction Record Sealing
Season 1
Looking Ahead with Senator Lydia Edwards
by Massachusetts Law Reform Institute
In this episode, we sit down with Massachusetts State Senator Lydia Edwards – one of the original champions of the eviction record sealing law – to reflect on the law's first year of impact and look ahead at what comes next. Senator Edwards shares her unique perspective as a legislator, former legal aid attorney, and a small property owner, discusses potential improvements to make sealing faster and more automatic for tenants who win or have their cases dismissed, and reflects on the power of community and tenant organizations in making the law real for people.
This episode focuses on outreach strategies - how advocates, organizers, and service providers can effectively connect with tenants and ensure people know their rights and options for sealing eviction records. We’re joined by Lori Stewart and Norieliz DeJesus, who share their perspectives on outreach strategy, insights from direct community engagement, and what it takes to reach tenants where they are.