The document discusses a 1987 case called Tenants v. Alameda, in which low-income tenants in Alameda, California sued the city for discriminatory housing policies. Specifically, the tenants argued the city's policies discriminated against low-income renters and African Americans and did not comply with state housing laws. The case was settled out of court with the city agreeing to exempt certain housing developments from restrictive policies and contribute funds to affordable housing. However, the document notes that low-income tenants still face significant political, economic, and social barriers to accessing affordable housing. While litigation provides a mechanism for change, it also has limitations in addressing tenants' immediate needs.