As United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged on World Environment Day 2020,“To care for humanity, we must care for nature.” Here in the Portland-Vancouver region, we know that the resiliency of communities is closely linked to our parks and open spaces. Safe and equitable access to nature is a must, now in the time of Covid-19 more than ever.
That’s why The Intertwine Alliance endorses Measure 26-213, Portlanders for Parks—and urges all of our partner organizations and friends to help pass this critical levy in November.
The coronavirus pandemic, closure of community centers and pools, and cancellation of recreation activities have created a multi-million dollar deficit for Portland Parks & Recreation. Measure 26-213—a five-year local option levy—is essential to restore these cuts, re-open community centers, protect essential programs for families with lower incomes, and provide the recreation services we count on for physical and mental health.
Please vote YES by Nov. 3, ask your family and friends to do the same, and consider donating to the campaign. We need our parks now more than ever.
Portland Parks Foundation recommends these four simple ways to help pass the measure:
1. BE INFORMED
Join with a rapidly growing field of supporters to pass a five-year, $48-million/year levy to restore recreation programs and maintain and preserve our parks and natural areas. The levy will:
- Restore recreation, fitness, swim lessons, arts and other programs closed by the pandemic
- Better care for our city’s parks, natural areas, trees, canopy, and watersheds
- Expand recreation opportunities for communities of color and all families experiencing poverty
Stay updated by joining the campaign’s growing mailing list.
2. ENDORSE THE LEVY
Don’t be left out! Portland Parks & Recreation is at a critical juncture. Organizations and companies, large and small, former parks commissioners, and people from across the political spectrum are joining to save and expand access to our parks system. See endorsements.
3. THROW A HOUSE PARTY
Gather your members and friends! Campaign parties in the pandemic have moved to Zoom and other online platforms. The campaign has a handy how-to kit and a roster of notable parks experts and supporters to tell your group about the levy, answer questions, and get everyone involved. Email madisonmordaun
4. VOLUNTEER
Join the growing list of volunteers who are phone banking, text banking, posting on social media, handing out yard signs, and otherwise pitching in to pass this critically important levy to keep our parks system accessible, healthy, safe and beautiful.
Intertwine Alliance partners and friends, let’s come together this Nov. 3 to protect Portland’s beloved parks and the invaluable services PP&R provides. Portlanders love our parks—and parks need our help.
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