By ANDREW WILKINS

It’s hard not to feel a sense of futility as we watch the Oregon Legislature weaken a raft of bills on police reform during its current special session.

It’s all been developing quickly over the past few days, and Oregon Public Broadcasting have updated the story the morning of Friday, June 26th.

OPB reports: Oregon Police Reform Package Sees Changes Headed Into Session’s Final Stretch

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It’s also disheartening to see factions form among folks organizing rallies and protests, but again, here we are.

We took a deep dive into a division among folks protesting and hosting rallies during this recent re-newed commitment to police reform and Black Lives Matter.

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So under this current twisted legal system, where can a brave raccoon find justice? Only in civil court, it seems.

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Restaurants and bars are open, face masks are required inside… it all seems like a contradiction.

Especially when this morning, State health officials predict an “exponential growth” in infections based on new modeling.

So if you’re going to be around other people, please take precautions.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26TH

All day today, there’s an art auction for Don’t Shoot PDX.

Here’s the link to see what’s for sale and as of this morning they’ve already raised nearly $6,500. The sale ends July 4th.

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East County Educators for BLM (event):

“We will be lining SE Stark St and holding signs to show our support for the Black Lives Matter movement. We will provide the signs or you can bring your own. We will be maintaining physical distancing and adults should wear face coverings.”

SE Stark & SE 185th * 5 pm

SATURDAY, JUNE 27TH

Ride against racism (event):

“Join your fellow classmates and community, as we bike, walk, and stroll together in a unified demonstration against the violence, death, and systematic, institutional racism against Black men, women, and children.”

From Boise-Elliot / Humboldt Elementary School to Sabin Elementary. Organizers are requiring social distancing and masks for adults.

Boise-Elliot / Humboldt Elementary School * 1 pm

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Ride naked day (event):

“This year there will be no start location or start time due to Covid-19. Instead, riders are encouraged to celebrate World Naked Bike Ride DAY — riding wherever they’d like whenever they’d like on June 27th.”

various locations * all day

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Standing at the gate:

Folks are asking for more turnout at the Multnomah County Justice Center downtown. There have been assaults multiple injuries so attend at your own risk. It’s not recommended for children or animals.

The gathering has happened every night since the protests began, and are expected to continue…

MC Justice Center, 1120 SW 3rd Ave * 9 pm

SUNDAY, JUNE 28TH

On Sunday is the Lents International Farmers Market!

Learn more about the market here, including how to “double up” your SNAP benefits.

SE 92nd & Reedway, between Foster Rd & Harold St * 9 am – 2 pm

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The Montavilla Farmers Market is every Sunday, and a great way to link in with the creators and growers in the area.

Learn more about the market and vendors here.

7700 block of SE Stark St * 10 am – 2 pm

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Stay safe, and enjoy your weekend!