Portland has reached a long-awaited moment of transformation and promise.
Last week, I was honored to be sworn into office alongside Portland’s 12 new city councilors. Justice Darleen Ortega challenged each of us to welcome diverse perspectives, listen and learn from those who aren’t in the room, and “cultivate the courage to show up with all that you have.”
We’re ready. Our city government has been reimagined, embodying the best of our innovation and values. Our new electoral system rewards consensus and bridge-building over ideology and division. Our new city council is more diverse and representative than any that came before.
It’s time for Portland’s leadership to meet the moment and solve the issues that prevent us from reaching our potential. We must restore a sense of personal safety to the public. We must share burdens and prosperity equitably across our city. We’re not a city of gated communities, we’re a city of block parties and shared gardens. We’re a city that protests injustice and celebrates diversity.
It's time to dream big again. Imagine what we could accomplish as a magnet for equitable and environmentally sustainable development and investment in every business sector. Imagine how Portland can once again show the nation the power of our values, as we have with marriage equality, the arts, and environmental leadership.
I’ve seen the best of Portland and the ways we have stumbled, and I believe our most beautiful days remain ahead. We can rebuild our togetherness, rebuild a stronger and better community, and I call on all of you to be part of the hard and important work ahead.
ALT Mayor Wilson stands in the middle of a group of people, talking to them, while at a large reception.
ALT Mayor Wilson stands at the center of a theater stage with his right hand raised and facing Judge Ortega. A line of elected officials are also on the stage.
ALT Mayor Wilson stands in front of a television crew, who are interviewing him.
ALT Mayor Wilson sits on a couch, listening intently to City Councilor Jamie Dunphy across from him.