The Origins of PAH: Empathy and Solidarity Mobilization

This chapter examines the origins and evolution of the Platform of Those Affected by Mortgages (PAH), a pioneering social movement that emerged in response to the housing crisis triggered by the 2008 financial collapse. It explores how PAH was initiated by solidarity early risers—individuals not directly affected by the crisis—who laid the groundwork for mobilizing those immobilized by their grievances. The chapter illustrates how PAH transforms individuals immobilized by their mortgage and eviction problems into active participants through care. PAH’s campaigns, such as eviction blockades and the occupation of bank-owned properties, are presented as examples of care-driven contentious action that address immediate needs while challenging systemic injustices. The chapter positions PAH as an exemplary case of care-based mobilization, illustrating its dual capacity to engage directly impacted individuals and solidarity-driven allies, combining direct action with campaigns geared at systemic change.