The Committee Against Utility Shutoffs held a demonstration on March 12 to demand an end to utility shutoffs and insist that heat and lights are social rights.

The march, involving about 100 people, began at 8011 Dexter Avenue, the scene of a January 5, 2010 fire that took the lives of three people: Marvin Allen, 62; Tyrone Allen, 61; and Lynn Greer, 58. It ended at a meeting at the Dexter-Elmhurst center.

Lawrence Porter, chairman of CAUS, opened the event with a speech outlining the program of the demonstration. The event culminated at a public meeting that included comments and contributions from the participants.