In the 1970s, thousands of immigrant workers living in "foyers" or workers' hostels across France stopped paying rent.

They were protesting against rent hikes and living conditions in the foyers, known for their tiny box rooms and substandard conditions, and against the racism of the housing management companies.

The strike mainly took place in foyers run by Sonacotra, formerly Sonacotral: the National company for the construction of housing for Algerian workers.

The strike lasted some five years, from around 1975 to 1980. Estimates vary, but at least 20,000 residents are thought to have taken part at the peak of the strike.

Today, the strike is still remembered as a founding moment in the struggle for immigrants' rights in France.

Mohammed Kherbachi, originally from Algeria, tells Carolyn Lamboley why he took part in the strike. A Whistledown production.

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(Photo: Protest at the Sonacotra homes for immigrant workers. Credit: Eric Bouvet via Getty Images)

The immigrant workers who refused to pay rent in 1970s France

Witness History

The immigrant workers who refused to pay rent in 1970s France