I’ve had the privilege of being a public school educator for 14 years, the last 11 for Portland Public Schools. Pushing for equity and inclusion is a top priority for me. I place an emphasis on creating dialogue, relationships and collaboration between students, parents, and faculty. I see how this approach makes a difference in the lives and educational outcomes of students.

I’m supporting Jo Ann Hardesty for Portland City Council because she shares my commitment to equity and has shown up for every Portlander time and time again.

Since first being elected in 2019, Hardesty has worked tirelessly to make Portland a more resilient and equitable city. During her time on the City Council, Hardesty fought to make housing affordable and expand short-term shelters for our unhoused neighbors, took action to make streets safer and led the charge to move Portland away from fossil fuels. Hardesty values public education and voices support for smaller class sizes and fighting for the schools our kids deserve.

Portland is at a serious crossroads. Hardesty is the one who pushes the City Council to consider all Portlanders, not just the ones with deep pockets and real estate connections. In my classroom, we often ask “whose voices are missing?” Hardesty asks that same, important question and continues to ask it so Portland moves forward on an equitable path for all. I’m voting for Jo Ann Hardesty and I strongly urge you to do the same.

Tiffany Koyama Lane, Portland