I think actually hackerspaces are more important because it brings prople in toa social context (like real life) which encourages people to participate in new ways. Also I think In major cities the municipality should promote these kinds of activities with supported rents, or free housing etc.

If you are guilty you can start a fund raising so that you fellow slashdotters and nerds of the net can help you out. Get public about the lawsuit and write a book get famous. Become the david versus goliath!