Artists and creative professionals in Portland, Oregon, have been forced out of their work spaces and studios over the past several years, to the point where many independent working folks have had to either stop their careers, or have been forced to leave the city- or often, the state.
Portland's creative talent is its strength, and is composed largely of hardworking, talented people who contribute to the social and cultural good of our city- yet also are most likely to be low-income workers who are being displaced by the effects of gentrification and real estate shortages.
We aim to send a message to Mayor Charlie Hales, and the City of Portland, that they need to act to protect Portland's creative talent and stop the "brain drain" of artists and creatives leaving our city. Help us call for affordable living and working spaces for artists and other creatives!
Source: http://www.wweek.com/arts/2015/10/21/portland-i-love-you-but-youre-forcing-me-out/
Source: http://www.seattletimes.com/business/real-estate/rising-rents-pushing-out-artists-hipsters-that-made-portland-cool/
Over the past several years, independent working artists & creative professionals in Portland have been displaced, not only because of rising housing costs, but because the effects of gentrification have forced many out of their workspaces and studios.
Artists' Union Local 503, and the creative professionals of Portland, call on Charlie Hales and the City of Portland to act NOW, in order to put a stop to this trend, and insure affordable, safe work spaces AND housing for Portland's creative talent.
Mr Mayor, we need you to acknowledge that Portland wouldn't be the tourism and living attraction it is today, without the efforts and talent of Portland's independent creative artists, craftspeople, food entrepeneurs, performers, and more. And Portland will lose its attraction and vibrant arts and culture if we are not supported to be able to live and work in your city. Please help preserve our rich and diverse cultural scene- help us stay living and working in Portland!
