We believe in the power of collective action, freedom of speech, and the right to protest. For the last two weeks, Black youth across our city have been leading demonstrations and demonstrating the power that collective action can have in winning real change; change that uproots racial injustice and moves us closer to achieving true social justice and equity. These young people are making history, and have already won significant reforms to Portland policing. 

We know many of you are participating in the demonstrations and marches. But we also want to remind you all that you have a legal right to participate in these protests and that you should not have any fear that doing so will in any way put your career at risk. Your union has your back. We encourage you to always be a proud PAT member by wearing any PAT t-shirts you may have while exercising your civic right. We are sorry we don’t have more BLM shirts, but we will get more. We also encourage you to work with your colleagues to show up together. Be creative. Be courageous. Be PAT.