Avalos, Pirtle-Guiney, Koyama Lane, and Clark Introduce Protect Portland Initiative, Stand Up to Federal Overreach

The Portland City Council will introduce the "Protect Portland Initiative" on October 15 to address perceived federal overreach by the Trump administration. This resolution aims to safeguard vulnerable populations, such as immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals, from aggressive federal policies. Councilor Candace Avalos stated that the initiative is modeled after the Protect Chicago Executive Order and hopes to inspire a national movement. Key provisions include gathering data on federal enforcement actions and creating rapid response plans for immigration raids. Council President Elana Pirtle-Guiney pledged to defend Portland's achievements against federal hostility.

Vice President Tiffany Koyama Lane highlighted the broader implications for democracy and civil rights. The resolution also encourages the Portland Police Bureau to separate from federal immigration enforcement and investigate impersonators of ICE agents. The council meeting will start at 6 p. m. , and resolutions do not require a second reading before adoption.