Clarification on My Remarks after Wednesday's Council Meeting

During the Portland City Council meeting on Wednesday night, Councilor Loretta Smith experienced a profound sense of uncertainty and fear in an increasingly chaotic and unpredictable environment. Many attendees forcefully broke past security and moved angrily toward the dais where she was seated, shouting demeaning and offensive language at her.

To be clear, she denounces violence. She wants to emphasize that violence is not the first and only solution to solving matters. As public servants, Councilors dedicate themselves daily to listening to everyone's concerns and remain in the council chambers to ensure they hear all testimony, even amid disruptions.

"To be clear, I denounce violence. I want to emphasize that violence is not the first and only solution to solving matters. And improving our security protocols is the best first action rather than an open carry ordinance."

Unfortunately, many who were scheduled to speak on Wednesday were not allowed to speak because Councilors had to literally retreat to a virtual meeting in their individual offices to continue the meeting after the meeting became too unsafe to continue in chambers. The democratic process was compromised.

As a Black woman, she carries the weight of history with her. She has had to educate her son about the realities of driving while Black. She has also witnessed, in recent times, the tragic abuse of power by ICE, resulting in the harm and loss of innocent lives who were merely exercising their right to peacefully protest. Those individuals will never return home. She, too, wishes to feel safe in her workplace and to go home at the end of the day.

"Just as protesters desire to feel safe in their communities, I, too, have a right to feel safe in my work environment. Some people at City Hall are considering getting a concealed weapon permit," said Councilor Smith.

Moving forward, she commits to collaborating with Mayor Wilson, the Council President, the City Administrator, and security experts to thoroughly assess the events of that evening and to develop additional safety measures for future meetings. This will include implementing clear and stronger protocols for handling disturbances, enhancing de-escalation techniques, and ensuring better protection for both staff and attendees.

Portlanders deserve a City Hall where people can show up, speak out, and be heard without threats, interruptions, or fear. She is committed to getting us there.