(PORTLAND, Oreg.) — The Portland City Council meeting on September 2, 2026, was marked by significant debate surrounding the discussion of the possible change to the street name.
The contentious renaming of Cesar Chavez Boulevard to Campesinos Boulevard, driven by disturbing revelations about Chavez's past, exposed deep divisions within the community regarding public process, historical memory, and the city's responsiveness to all constituents.
Photo Credit: YouTube
Claire Adamson with council operations provided the committee staff summary report.
Video Credit: YouTube / eGov PDX
Following the report, Councilor Loretta Smith opened the discussion and expressed her support for renaming the street, hoping for a friendly debate.
“I know that changing public symbols naturally evokes really strong feelings. Reexamining our past can feel uncomfortable and honest disagreements will rise. But I welcome those friendly debates,” Smith said. “Let this chamber be a place where we discuss our history openly, not to deepen our racial or political divisions, but to bridge them through truth and mutual respect. Debate does not have to divide us when rooted in good faith. It clarifies our shared values and unites us around our common humanity.”
Serena Cruz, a Sabin neighbor candidate for the Multnomah County Commission, supported renaming to Campesinos Boulevard. She acknowledged the disruption of any name change but argued that keeping 'Chavez' is not neutral given his abuse allegations.
“At a time when Latin A and immigrant communities are being targeted by the federal government, naming the quarter Campesinos Blvd sends a message that Portland cannot send loudly enough. Your labor, your sacrifice, and your story belong on the streets. I urge council to pass this ordinance,” Cruz said.
CEO of the Children’s Institute Kali Thorne Ladd supported renaming to Campesinos Blvd. She stressed the importance for children, especially Latino children who face discrimination.
“While it’s a small gesture, maybe to some, the street naming gives children something that says, ‘I see you. You belong here. You matter.’" Ladd said. “Few things can be more powerful for a child, and since they often don’t have a say and don’t have a vote, I wanted to elevate their voice, their rights. It’s not just the right thing to do, but it’s something that generation after generation of children will be able to benefit from.”
Michael Taylor believed Cesar Chavez's name should be removed, but questioned the widespread consensus for 'Campesinos Boulevard.' He advocated for a more robust community engagement process.
“I'd ask [the] council to remove Chavez’s name from the street. Don’t waive public process in to order to impose Campesinos Blvd. Seriously consider 39th Ave. There’s a massive amount of community support, so they should be given some consideration," Taylor said.
Jerry Hansen, a Richmond neighborhood resident, criticized the council for a 'gross double standard' in waiving all process requirements for the Campesinos renaming, contrasting it with the extensive signature collection demanded from a Native American group for a much smaller street segment.
Photo Credit: YouTube
“Why does the smallest minority community have to gather 2,500 signatures, while another gets every requirement waived outright? This is not a small inconsistency. This is a gross double standard. It’s blatant favoritism of one minority. It’s not fair. Do what good politicians do and find a compromise,” Hansen said.
The Portland council will hold a final vote on the name change in the coming weeks.
If you would like to comment on this report, please email me at rory.h@lead4earth.org.
0
0
Comments