Uncertain Fate for Warsaw Squatters
It may not be as well-known as Poznan's Rozbrat, but the Elba squat, in Warsaw's western Zoliborz, does more than just play a vital part in the city's underground culture. Squatters have lived in the space since November 2005 and have developed and renovated the spot creating a vibrant social hub.
Some activities at Elba have political themes, such as their upcoming Anti-Nuclear Benefit Concert on Sunday the 26th of April. However the majority of activities and services at the squat are educational and cultural. Workshops are organized on a regular basis from dance to bike repair- all for free of course. Elba also organizes concerts (mostly fringe acts playing all types of alternative music from punk to electro) and film screenings. Skaters and BMX bikers can practice their moves regardless of the weather at the centre's covered skate park - once the only one of its kind in Warsaw. Elba's residents also run a "freeshop" - a place where anyone can swap, leave, or just take for free anything from clothing to essential household items.
The legal owners of the building, Stora Enso Poland, have plans to demolish the building as soon as possible. There is of course a financial element to the decision, but Stora Enso representatives have said they simply do not want to take legal responsibility for the residents at Elba.
Elba's residents have organized petitions and protests in an effort to delay the date the building will be torn down. Finding an investor to buy the building back is another huge challenge, but the residents of Elba are determined to hold on to the place they now call home.
For more info visit the Elba Squat online, or in person at ul. Elbląska 9/11