The Mercury highlights the importance of local journalism and arts coverage in Portland while addressing the city's recent settlement of $938,000 to journalists who faced violence during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. This settlement marks the largest related to those protests and raises questions about press freedom. The City Council approved the settlement with an 11-1 vote, sparking criticism towards dissenting Councilor Loretta Smith for her stance on supporting the press. The article encourages community support for local journalism amid this troubling backdrop.
"The City of Portland has once again been forced to fork over a major payout due to police violence during the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020..."
"...what the lawsuit entails, which contains chilling details of legal observers and reporters being knocked down, gassed, and beaten with batons while legitimately trying to report on police activity during the protests."
"The council voted 11-1 to settle the lawsuit—with the notable 'no' vote being cast by Councilor Loretta Smith. Thanks a lot, Loretta... it's good to know who (and who does not) support freedom of the press..."
"If you believe Portland benefits from smart, local journalism and arts coverage, please consider making a small monthly contribution, because without you, there is no us."
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