PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Dozens hit the pavement in Northeast Portland to show their support for refugees and immigrants on July 21.
Organizers said the walk was planned as a way to recognize the unique experiences of new Portlanders of all ages and backgrounds.
They say understanding is especially important in today’s climate.
Many who took part in the march are immigrants themselves, including Milan Velinirovic, who came to the US as a refugee 22 years ago.
He said people often don’t realize he’s an immigrant because he “looks white.”
“I am extremely offended when immigrants and refugees are mistreated because it doesn’t matter — I could look differently than I look and I would be mistreated,” Velinirovic said.
The walk was organized in part by the East Portland Neighborhood Association.
