Portland Community Leaders Demand Accountability Following Normandale Park Shooting
We were approached by various organizations to participate in a press conference. The leaders of this press conference advised us that this was not about the victims or the shooting, but the misinformation that has caused great division and threats of violence not only in the activist community, but in Portlands’ communities of color at large. It’s important to inform people on the humanity that was shown and the work that is done to uproot white supremacy in this city so that instead of feeling like the work of antifascists is a threat, they can see it as an asset for our city and for the growth we need to continue to be involved in.
We have not heard enough from civic leaders surrounding the mass shooting against protestors that occurred during Presidents Day weekend; making it all the more important that we address our community at large. The victims of this tragedy and their families need community support, not criticism and conflict. We hope that bringing this message to the people most affected will add clarity and bridge any gaps in communication. As Black community members who have long been engaged in the active fight against white supremacy, this is how we show up.
Please review this form that we put out in April of 2021 when initial bias remarks were reported against activists from our very own elected officials. We are using this form to track vigilante racist violence emboldened by our civic leaders and to provide resources to the victims. These submissions will be made available to our legal team.
We will always be a resource to our community against white supremacy - please reach out directly if you need critical support.
Who: Don’t Shoot Portland and RACE TALKS
What: Joint Press Conference
When: Friday, February 25, 11 a.m.
Who: Teressa L Raiford, Founder, Dont Shoot Portland
Shaina Pomerantz, Executive Director, RACE TALKS