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As we approach a pivotal moment in Portland's history, the importance of the APANO Action Fund's endorsements cannot be overstated.
Our endorsement process continues to be thorough and intentional, reflecting our commitment to supporting candidates who genuinely prioritize the needs of our Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities (AANHPI).
In this blog, we will share our endorsements for Portland City Council, as well as key candidates for the state legislature and important statewide ballot initiatives. It’s crucial for AANHPI individuals to have a seat at the table, ensuring our perspectives and experiences shape policies that impact our lives.
Each of these leaders stands out not only for their qualifications but also for their deep-rooted commitment to uplifting our communities.
Let’s dive into who they are and why we believe they can make a difference in Portland.
Our Endorsements
Mayor: Carmen Rubio
About Carmen
Carmen Rubio is not just a candidate; she’s a fierce advocate for social justice and the first Chicana on Portland's City Council. With a rich background in community organizing, Carmen understands the diverse needs of our city.
Why We Support Carmen
Carmen’s priorities reflect her commitment to the most pressing issues facing our city—addressing homelessness through supportive housing, enhancing mental health services, and focusing on public safety that prioritizes prevention. She believes in an inclusive Portland where every voice, especially those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, is heard.
District 1: Steph Routh
About Steph
With over 20 years of community organizing experience, Steph Routh is a champion for equity and inclusion. Her background gives her unique insights into the systemic inequalities our communities face.
Why We Support Steph
Steph’s vision for community safety goes beyond policing; she emphasizes economic and environmental solutions that create real safety for everyone. Her commitment to affordable childcare and equitable access to opportunities makes her the right choice for Portland families.
District 1: Timur Ender
About Timur
Timur Ender is an advocate for equity who truly understands the challenges of East Portland. His dedication to community well-being shines through in his work.
Why We Support Timur
Timur’s focus on a housing-first approach reflects his understanding that stable housing is essential for thriving communities. His plans to enhance community safety and increase access to mental health services prioritize the dignity of every individual.
District 1: Candace Avalos
About Candace
Candace Avalos is a fresh voice in Portland politics, bringing a wealth of experience as a former Executive Director of Verde. Her personal journey informs her advocacy for racial equity.
Why We Support Candace
Candace champions a housing-first strategy and recognizes the urgent need for mental health services, particularly for marginalized communities. Her dedication to combating heat inequities through tree canopy expansion highlights her holistic approach to community health.
District 1: Cayle Tern
About Cayle
Cayle Tern is passionate about uplifting marginalized voices, drawing from his own experiences within the Iu Mien community and his public service background.
Why We Support Cayle
Cayle’s commitment to addressing homelessness through transitional housing and increased funding for mental health services makes him a strong advocate for all Portlanders. He understands the importance of targeted support for diverse communities.
District 2: Tiffani Penson
About Tiffani
Tiffani Penson has deep roots in Portland and brings valuable insights from her time on the Portland Community College Board. Her lived experience with gentrification drives her advocacy.
Why We Support Tiffani
Tiffani is committed to a safe, livable city with housing stability for everyone. Her focus on community-oriented public safety and economic growth ensures that marginalized voices are prioritized.
District 2: Elana Pirtle-Guiney
About Elana
Elana brings a strong background in public service and engineering to her campaign. She’s passionate about building a more equitable Portland.
Why We Support Elana
Elana advocates for policies that directly address the housing crisis while ensuring environmental sustainability. Her commitment to community engagement will empower diverse voices in city governance.
District 2: Sameer Kanal
About Sameer
Sameer Kanal’s experiences with housing insecurity fuel his passion for social equity. He’s dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.
Why We Support Sameer
Sameer’s vision for a city built on trust and support prioritizes community safety and housing as a human right. His commitment to climate action and public safety reflects a holistic approach to governance.
District 2: Chris Olson
About Chris
Chris Olson is an advocate for justice and equity, with experience in grassroots organizing. He understands the systemic barriers faced by many communities.
Why We Support Chris
Chris’s focus on a Renters’ Bill of Rights and emergency shelters shows his commitment to compassionate solutions for the housing crisis. His advocacy for fareless public transit emphasizes accessibility for all Portlanders.
District 3: Angelita Morillo
About Angelita
Angelita Morillo is a Paraguayan immigrant and anti-hunger policy advocate. Her commitment to equity is deeply rooted in her community experiences.
Why We Support Angelita
Angelita champions policies addressing housing, food insecurity, and transportation equity. Her holistic approach ensures that diverse needs are met in our communities.
District 3: Tiffany Koyama Lane
About Tiffany
Tiffany Koyama Lane, known as Teacher Tiffany, is a community organizer with a strong commitment to social justice. Her family's history inspires her advocacy.
Why We Support Tiffany
Tiffany emphasizes solutions for housing and homelessness, alongside community-driven public safety. Her vision for a connected Portland prioritizes well-being for all residents.
District 3: Jesse Cornett
About Jesse
Jesse Cornett’s personal experiences with poverty drive his commitment to advocacy. His background as a healthcare lobbyist showcases his dedication to underserved communities.
Why We Support Jesse
Jesse’s platform tackles homelessness and addiction through comprehensive solutions, ensuring that no one is left behind. His commitment to community engagement will uplift diverse voices in decision-making.
District 4: Mitch Green
About Mitch
Mitch Green is a seasoned organizer focused on housing and environmental justice. His proactive approach ensures community needs are front and center.
Why We Support Mitch
Mitch champions innovative housing solutions and climate resiliency, emphasizing the importance of engaging with marginalized communities to create an equitable city.
District 4: Chad Lykins
About Chad
Chad Lykins’ personal journey through housing challenges informs his public service approach. His advocacy reflects a deep understanding of systemic issues.
Why We Support Chad
Chad prioritizes community-based public safety solutions and dismantling systemic racism. His strong engagement with constituents ensures that all voices are heard.
District 4: Sarah Silkie
About Sarah
Sarah Silkie takes a grassroots approach to governance, emphasizing community engagement and addressing systemic inequities in her work.
Why We Support Sarah
Sarah advocates for climate action, housing justice, and community safety initiatives. Her focus on disaggregated data will help ensure that unique challenges faced by different groups are acknowledged and addressed.
Join Us in Making a Difference
These candidates represent hope and change for Portland, and we believe in their ability to lead our city toward a more equitable future.
Let’s mobilize, engage with our communities, and make our voices heard in this election.
Together, we can create a Portland that thrives for everyone!
Interested in volunteering for one of these campaigns or joining an APANO AF canvass day or phone bank? Sign up to volunteer here!
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