On the Sunday before “Thanksgiving,” it’s important to acknowledge that this city exists on stolen land. The same is true nationwide, and in countless places beyond our country, but living in Portland today means we continue to witness this pattern of colonialism and displacement. 

This city was founded on theft and racism, and with the influx of gentrification we’re seeing it further still. There are countless articles and discussions happening around this subject, but we ask Portland residents: if you’ve moved to here and/or you live in an area that was historically indigenous, black, or predominantly another marginalized group, what are you doing to give back to the community you now inhabit? What are you doing to justify the space you’re taking up and the space you’ve taken to displace someone else?

This isn’t to restrict where you live or what you call home, but be cognizant. It isn’t enough to be a nice neighbor and maintain curb appeal. Give your money to the people, businesses, and communities you’ve welcomed yourself to. Understand the racial wealth gap that’s allowed you be where you are and patronize the local businesses that are still standing despite everything else changing around them.

To that end, I’m excited to introduce this week’s guest– a musician and Portland native, Jonny Sanders. As Portland continues to change, I hope this city will proactively reach out to and support artists like Jonny who are still here, still taking up space, still thriving.