1. United States
2. Ore.
3. Letter

The Port of Portland is facing an impossible choice - either maintain its diversity, equity and inclusion policies or risk losing $145 million in vital federal funding. This ultimatum from the Trump administration puts the Port in an untenable position, forced to choose between upholding its values of social equity or ensuring it can continue operating effectively. No institution should have to sacrifice its principles of inclusion and fairness simply to receive funding it depends on. Equity and access should not be treated as partisan issues, but rather as fundamental rights benefiting all of society. The Port has made strides in promoting diversity and opportunity, progress that will be undone if these policies are revoked under political pressure. I urge a reconsideration of this federal ultimatum, as losing this funding could cripple the Port's operations while the equity policies it has instated reflect the diversity and values of our community. There must be a way to maintain both funding and inclusion without compromise.