This Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for Portland

This Thanksgiving, I’m thankful that Tony and his dog Elvis are home safe, and that his 250-pound pig Roscoe has a beautiful new life at an animal sanctuary. Tony is a veteran, and he was stranded on the streets of Portland after a medical emergency and the death of his partner. Thanks to the amazing work of Portland Fire & Rescue and Portland Solutions, Tony is now one of 175 successful reunifications, where city workers reconnect unsheltered folks with their loved ones, often within hours. Best of all, we can help pets – even unusual ones like Roscoe!  

There's so much more. I’m thankful for the brilliant reopening of the renovated Portland Art Museum and Nike flagship store. I’m thankful for how Portland stands up to federal overreach with peace and purpose, by supporting our immigrant neighbors and businesses, and staging the largest and safest demonstrations our city has ever seen. 

I’m especially grateful to the neighbors who welcome shelters and day centers into their communities. I can’t emphasize enough that your compassion and willingness to work with the city will save so many lives.  

I’m grateful for small things as well, like my morning tea and the patience of my family as I work long hours. I’m grateful for those who stop me on the street to share their excitement for Portland’s new renaissance – the occasional constructive criticism is welcome, too!  

Most of all, friends, I’m thankful for Portland. I’m thankful for when my staff lets me attend events without making a speech, so I can sit back and clap and cheer for the incredible work everyday Portlanders have made to repair, restore, and revitalize our city. You have truly taken up the mantle of renewal and made it your own.