 API Forward Keynote
Last weekend I was the keynote speaker at the API Forward to finish out AAPI Heritage month!
It was an honor to celebrate the accomplishments and resilience of our AANHPI community—and especially to uplift the graduates and emerging leaders who are already shaping our future.
In my remarks, I shared a quote that grounds me in this work, from Mary Hooks of Southerners on New Ground:
“Avenge the suffering of our ancestors;
Earn the respect of future generations; and
Be transformed in service to the work.”
These words guided my path from classroom teacher to union organizer to Portland City Council, and they continue to light the way forward.
As a fourth-generation Japanese American, a proud union member, and the first Asian American woman elected to Portland City Council (and now serving as Vice President!), I hold this work with reverence—for the sacrifices of those who came before, and the dreams of those rising up now.
To the graduates and honorees: you are our future ancestors. Your courage, brilliance, and leadership give me so much hope. Know that you are not alone. You carry the wisdom of generations, and you are already building a future where justice, joy, and revolutionary love lead the way.
To everyone who poured into these students, supported this event, and keeps the fire of community alive—thank you. I’m honored to be in this circle with you.
Let’s keep showing up for each other. Let’s keep building.
Montavilla Church Visit
Just had the most heartwarming meeting with members of the Montavilla Church congregation. From the moment I walked in, I was met with such warmth and genuine interest. We talked about everything from affordable housing and community safety to how to inspire others in civic engagement. Their questions were thoughtful, their perspectives were grounded in love and justice, and their care for our city was palpable.
I’m so grateful for spaces like this—where people come together, not only to worship, but to listen, learn, and imagine a better future for Portland. The hour flew by, and I left feeling deeply inspired by their kindness, hospitality, and hope.
International School
I had the chance to tour the International School of Portland—not in District 3, but I couldn’t pass up the invitation. Their concerns and work around pedestrian and bike safety is notable, and I loved hearing about how they’re engaging their community around safe routes to school.
What allows moving was the way they spoke about their neighboring Safe Rest Village. They described it not as a challenge, but as an asset to their community. They’ve built strong relationships with the folks running it, and even invite residents to share their experiences with students and staff. It’s helping young people grow in compassion and awareness, and creating a deeper, more connected community.
This is what’s possible when we choose care, connection, and shared humanity.
During my visit at the International School, families walked me over to the intersection at S. Sheridan St. and S. Water Ave.—the main path many of them take to get to school. It was immediately clear how unsafe it is: no sidewalks for pedestrians, only one stop sign, and cars moving fast through an area where kids and caregivers walk every day. As we stood there together talking, I could feel how exposed and vulnerable it felt just being in that space. Even in the short 10-15 minutes we stood there, I found myself feeling nervous about the traffic and lack of protections. No family should have to navigate conditions like that just to get to school.
This is exactly why I supported the formation of the Sidewalk Improvement and Pavement Project (SIPP). Seeing intersections like this one—where the safety of children and families is clearly at risk—shows just how urgent the need is for targeted infrastructure investments. SIPP is about prioritizing safety in places where our community walks, bikes, and moves every day. We can—and must—do better!
Get involved with the Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition!
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Thank you for reading!
Until next time,
Teacher Tiffany
she/her
councilor.koyamalane@portlandoregon.gov
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