Beyond Burns: Report from Rural Oregon!

Over 50 people from Columbia County joined us on Thursday to learn more about the economic and political roots of the “Patriot” movement in Oregon, and to discuss how we can be meeting the insecurity and vulnerability our communities are feeling.  The audience of “Beyond Burns” was made up of longtime local activists and folks who were at a political meeting for the very first time.  One attendee shared that she had been following the “Patriot” movement since Burns, and was frightened by it, but also wanted a safe space to discuss what she was seeing where she wouldn’t have to worry about retaliation.  This was her chance to connect with others and find ways to take action.

On Friday, over 50 people came together in Albany.  A cross section of groups in Linn and Benton Counties, including student groups, peace groups, and racial justice groups, attended to build connections.  A key theme coming out of the event was the desire to respond to the threatening politics of the patriot movement by moving a statewide agenda that addresses the lack of infrastructure in rural Oregon – from public libraries to 24 hour 911 service.

After these first three events, we are inspired and moved by all who are strategizing around how we can organize to meet their community’s’ basic needs, to build with their neighbors who are also fed up with our lousy economies and the lack of responsive political leadership, and to resist the threats and intimidation tactics of the “Patriot” movement.  We are more committed than ever to continue this work to build stronger, healthier and safer communities for everyone, no matter where you live.