Cities that embrace belonging thrive. Everybody belongs, but to grow belonging infrastructure, people need power and decision-making over their own lives and communities through ongoing, intergenerational, arts- and culture-based gatherings, dialogue, and action, with young people leading the effort. Join Dr. Kimberly Nightingale and a team of Portland belonging practitioners from 1–4 p.m. for a real-time exploration on belonging in cities.
The event kicks off with a four-minute Portland-based film from local filmmaker Dawn Jones Redstone, offering a glimpse into what belonging infrastructure can look like on the ground. A short panel follows, bringing together some of the voices behind the film: PSU professors Dr. Lisa K. Bates (Urban Planning, Black Studies) and Dr. Alma Trinidad (Social Work), Juntos director Cristian Vargas, youth panelists Kenlye Willingham and Amy Vu, and filmmaker Dawn Jones Redstone. The panel is hosted by youth leaders Lorena Mora and Areya Ouanesisouk. From there, the afternoon opens into conversation and belonging activities. Artist April Reissmann will be on hand throughout, visually rendering the event as it unfolds. Nicholas Restaurant will provide the food for this afternoon of music, art, creation and belonging.