Published: 21 September 2021
n a coalition led by IPAC (Interfaith Peace & Action Collaborative), numerous groups are joining together on September 21, the International Day of Peace, to announce the Portland Peace Initiative (PPI). Using “micro-community listening sessions” in as many of the individual neighborhoods and stakeholder groups in Portland as possible, PPI will seek to conduct small, granular, organized, grassroots virtual sessions or in-person conversations with community members and stakeholder groups using listening sessions and surveys. The purpose will be to develop a practical, lasting framework for inclusive community engagement that reimagines public safety in Portland, paying particular attention to communities of color and other historically underrepresented groups. The entire initiative is expected to last several months.
PPI is the creation of recognized problem-solvers from all backgrounds who seek to unite and elevate as many local efforts of individuals, groups and organizations that want to participate in building bridges of understanding and healing in Portland. Leading the initiative are Pastor Matt Hennessee, Robert King, Kevin Modica, Deniel Banks and Lisa Broderick of Police2Peace.
“What a perfect day to reset our goals for healing in the community,” said Pastor J.W. Matt Hennessee of the Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church.
