The demand for more affordable housing was made loud and clear Thursday during the first National Renters' Day of Action.

Several groups that advocate for the rights of tenants came out near the Barclays Center for what they described as a memorial and funeral procession for affordable housing.

Tenants and advocates say people are being displaced and pushed out of their homes because Mayor Bill de Blasio's affordable housing plan includes the rezoning of neighborhoods and development on public housing property. That, they say, will push thousands of renters from rent-stabilized units.

Community organizer Michael Higgins says that the day of action calls for a freeze on rent hikes and unjustified evictions.

There were 53 similar events planned in several cities around the country for the day.

A spokesperson for the mayor's office says the administration is 100 percent focused on creating and preserving affordable housing, including in neighborhoods that can accommodate growth and development. She adds that no one should be pushed out of their home.