Marilyn Sewell On Occupy Portland

The real problem with Occupy Portland is that the movement has attracted the poor, the homeless, the addicted, the mentally ill -- all of whom were in our city previously, but now are ever more visible.

Those of us who are more privileged and more comfortable would prefer that these people be less visible. The protesters have tried valiantly to provide services to those in need, but have been overwhelmed.

The salient question is not how do we get rid of Occupy Portland, but how do we address the human need that has been made all too clear? And in a larger sense, how do we address the economic inequity at the root of this nation's suffering?

MARILYN SEWELL
Southwest Portland