Talk A Mile

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Talk A Mile Talk A Mile connects young Black leaders with local police trainees for 1:1 conversations.

“Lived experience, even as a teen, is worth more than theoretical knowledge.” – Deputy District AttorneyOn February 5th,...
02/13/2026

“Lived experience, even as a teen, is worth more than theoretical knowledge.” – Deputy District Attorney

On February 5th, Jefferson High School hosted a Talk A Mile program that paired students for 1:1 conversations with local law enforcement, first responders and civic leaders.

A few participant reflections on the experience, learnings and takeaways:

“A beautiful experience that I recommend to literally everyone.” – Student
“I can be anything in life and have so many opportunities.” – Student
“Being able to walk and talk with the youth of the community and get to understand people and see their views was eye opening.” – Police trainee

The 76 participants included students from Jefferson High School, and , as well as Portland Police Bureau trainees, , .da, Office of Violence Prevention, , , and Bureau of Emergency Communications.

Talk A Mile 2/5/26 by the numbers:

76 Participants
9.3 Likelihood to recommend to a peer (1 to 10)
100% report feeling “seen and heard” through the experience

Walk. Talk. Listen. Learn.

Pics by .photography
Lunch by .hawaiian.cafe

“We cannot walk alone. And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.” – Dr. Martin Luther Ki...
01/23/2026

“We cannot walk alone. And as we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

We had a memorable day of conversation, connection and community at the game on MLK Day. Students from across the Portland-metro were paired for 1:1 conversations with elected officials, civic leaders and a Portland Trail Blazer. After walking and talking, we cheered the Remix together!

We appreciate everyone who volunteered their time and curiosity in service to the community –
Students, young leaders, , , and Chief Day, and Chief Johnson, , .da Nathan Vasquez, , , , , and everyone else who helped make Portland a better place one mile and one conversation at a time!

As Dr. King said, “Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.”

Walk. Talk. Listen. Learn.

civicengagement RipCity walktalklistenlearn

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Portland, OR

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