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Moda Center, Moda Center, Moda Center!
Lots of news this week about the Moda Center negotiations. The City released our first draft of the term sheet, which includes many community benefits I was hoping to see, including a Labor Peace Agreement. But the Trail Blazers’ ownership isn’t so happy about it. We will see. I’m hearing that, around the country, THIS is the general sentiment about what’s happening (warning: adult language!).
The Portland Mercury also published my op-ed on good governance titled “Portland’s New Government Is Being Stress‑Tested by the $600 Million Moda Center Deal.” I hope you have a chance to read it!
 Councilor Koyama Lane marching past onlookers in the Portland Pride Parade waiving a Trans Pride flag
Happy Pride!
Last Sunday, I marched with tens of thousands of people who came out for the Portland Pride Parade to show support for our beloved LGBTQIA2S+ community. I am proud to live in a city that is so devoted – in words and action – to protecting the civil and human rights of queer folks here and all over the world. Earlier this year, I spearheaded landmark legislation, the “LGBTQIA2S+ Protections Package and Bathroom Ordinance,” which defended transgender rights, updated civil rights code definitions for sexual orientation and family status, and guaranteed equal bathroom access for all. (These passed with 11 yes votes! One councilor was absent). I vow to continue to continue this important work with my colleagues!
 Photo with Chairwoman Cheryle Anne (Allen) Kennedy and group photos from nation-to-nation gathering with CTGR
Grande Ronde Trip
Last Friday, I joined our City delegation for a visit to the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde (CTGR). It was a deeply meaningful experience, focused on strengthening our nation‑to‑nation relationship. I was moved to see so many leaders reaffirm their commitment to ongoing, equitable engagement. We learned about CTGR’s cultural history, governance, and their work on key priorities including behavioral health, housing, emergency management, natural resources, and environmental restoration.
Sometimes I am just overwhelmed with gratitude to have these opportunities and be a part of the conversations that set the stage for the future. I am already working with partners to set up more opportunities to engage with other sovereign tribal nations, including urban indigenous communities.
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While it’s fun to work in City Hall and cross paths with staff that are doing interesting and important work every day, representing Councilor Koyama Lane in the community has been one of the things that I’ve most enjoyed about my internship so far. At Sunday’s Pride Parade, it was exhilarating to see Portlanders show up with such energy for our LGBTQIA2S+ neighbors, especially during a political moment when that solidarity is more of a necessity than ever. I also enjoyed staffing the Councilor at a neighborhood association meeting in North Tabor and listening to constituents’ questions. In my view, increased public access to elected officials is one of the best aspects of this new form of government.
I continue to learn about the power of local government through policy research and development. Connecting with staff from other cities across the country about their ethical investment policies has been enlightening and informative. Closer to home, I sat in on a meeting with staff from Hillsboro and heard about how they are regulating the growth of hyperscale data centers in their community. I’m enjoying the process of learning from our peer cities, and I’m inspired by how generous other public servants are with their time and insight.
The first half of this internship has flown by! Every day after work, I return home feeling grateful to be part of an inclusive team, from whom I’m learning a lot about good colleagueship, authentic leadership, and public service. I’m looking forward to all that the next three weeks hold.
Community Blocks Street Fair
On July 25, 2026, Community Blocks will transform SE 42nd Ave. in Portland, Oregon into a fully-activated street festival (art, vendors, performances, market, and more!) spanning from SE Francis St. to SE Holgate Blvd. From 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., this event will host 500+ attendees in a thoughtfully curated environment centered around art, culture, and community engagement. Learn more HERE.
Montavilla Street Fair
This one day, family-friendly, community celebration draws tens of thousands of visitors each year. Highlights include over 120 local arts, crafts, and food vendors, entertainment and a farmers market. The street fair is located on SE Stark St between 76th and 82nd Aves. and runs 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. The Farmers Market runs 10 a.m - 2 p.m.
Free Geek Pop Up Shop: Saturday, July 25, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Free Geek (1731 SE 10th Ave.). Join Free Geek for their BIG Tech Sale and shop a wide selection of affordable laptops, desktops, monitors, computer accessories, networking equipment, vintage tech, and more. Whether you're upgrading your home office, searching for a unique retro find, or looking for budget-friendly technology, there's something for everyone.
Pride Rainbow Family Storytime
Saturday, July 25, at 4:00 p.m. at the Multnomah County Library - Midland (805 SE 122nd Ave.). This free Family Pride Story Hour is a queer-led and LGBTQ+-themed dance party where LGBTQ+ families can share and connect in community. Parents, caregivers and children from birth to age 6, will enjoy this joyful and supportive drag event with local celebrity, LadyBerri Matthews.
 Flyer details I-5 closure from Sep 11 to early Oct, 2026. All I-5 lanes between I-85 and I-405 will be close 24 hours/7 days for five weeks.
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