In February 2022, Word is Bond (WIB) youth ambassadors, ages 16-21, hosted nine walking tours throughout Greater Portland neighborhoods. In groups of two, and supported by elders from these communities, the youth shared personal stories about what they do in their neighborhoods and ways to increase safety and promote investment in Portland’s Black communities. Hundreds of Portlanders came out to walk and listen, including local and state representatives and members of the business communities. Learn more about the “In My Shoes” tours here. 

Following on the success of “In My Shoes”— including several invitations to host private tours for individual groups — WIB is hosting a 5K walk through historical Albina, designed as a fundraiser, where the youth and their supporters will collectively take space in a newly gentrified area. Throughout the walk, WIB ambassadors and organization leaders will share poetry, memories, and resources, and take moments to pause and reflect on future city development plans.