DON’T SHOOT PORTLAND LEADS ANNUAL MARCH COMMEMORATING THE REVEREND DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR

Photo by Mika Martinez

On January 17th we invite you to join us as we move in the spirit of those who fought for freedom before us - let’s March for Human Rights and Dignity! As we take to the streets to commemorate the life of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King and as we celebrate his legacy, let's also carry the names of all the revolutionaries that have come before us.

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."

 - Martin Luther King Jr.

Our annual reclaim event is as important to this community as ever. We started a new year in Portland hearing the sounds of gun violence and fatal outcomes with no answers. Families reeling in pain because of the lack of public safety, fair housing and a genuine investment and concern in their communities. As we gather to commemorate Dr King, let's reflect on the increasing numbers of people affected by health inequities which have been highlighted due to the pandemic. We march to reclaim our voices as we demand space for education and preservation. 

“Morality cannot be legislated, but behavior can be regulated. Judicial decrees may not change the heart, but they can restrain the heartless.” 

- Martin Luther King Jr.

On January 17th, community members are encouraged to promote awareness of the Voting Rights Bill as a way to commemorate the holiday for the Reverend Dr Martin Luther King Jr.  We may not be able to legislate morality, but we have the power to elect our leaders and hold them accountable. There will be no celebration without voting rights legislation! We don’t wait in hopes of elected officials to implement the courage needed in times of change, but we move forward in the hope that we can disrupt the status quo in order to continue making social change possible for all.

When we reflect on the past twelve months of the continuing pandemic, increased racial violence and the perseverance of social justice action, we know that 2022 has to be a year of social impact. 

In 2021 Americans collectively witnessed the trials and prosecutions of law enforcement officers, iniquitous vigilantes, insurrectionists and school shooters, all participating in a violent movement that has moved from the streets onto social media where racist violence continues to trend. Unfortunately today we have far too many examples of systemic racism and to no surprise, a continued fight for voting rights. The struggle against hate is important now because Americans can see clearly that systemic discimination targets vulnerable communities made at risk by unfair and biased local policies and law.

No uprising in white supremacist violence has stopped organizers and activists who work to promote anti racist actions using education as a medium to dismantle white supremacy.  Our solidarity has proven to be essential because of everyday People's commitment to provide mutual aid by building community with intention. However, we cannot make social change by sharing resources alone; we must continue making our demands known through civic participation and engagement!

This Sunday January 16th, Kee’s Loaded Kitchen will be hosting another installment of her program, Feeding Black Portland, hosted with Don't Shoot Portland. We will feed the community at no cost in remembrance of Dr King and all victims of gun violence. We are holding this event in order to show support to those who have lost loved ones and are still seeking justice and understanding in our city. We will have resources for legal action and advocacy on-site. Please join us at 5020 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd starting at 1pm until meals are gone.

On the morning of January 17th, we plan to tune in virtually to the 36th Annual Skanner Breakfast for the unveiling of their highly anticipated Drum Major of Justice Award to commemorate the legacy of Dr. King with the Skanner Foundation and sponsors.

Following the virtual award ceremony, you are invited to meet us at Peninsula Park (700 N Rosa Parks) for a rally that begins at noon and march directly afterwards. We will also have local group Our Streets PDX on-site to receive donated items for their community outreach. Please bring items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, mouth wash, brushes/combs, socks, gloves and tents if you are able. This will go directly to our houseless communities.

For more information, please review our safety guidelines or contact us at contact@dontshootpdx.org