Portland clarifies role in messaging after ICE protests

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Portland city leaders are partnering with regional tourism officials to better communicate progress on key challenges, including homelessness, addiction and public safety, following recent protests outside a federal immigration facility.

City officials say it reflects a long-standing goal to align public communication and restore confidence in Portland’s recovery.

KOIN 6 received an email over the weekend from Conan Knoll of EMC Communications, containing a statement from Mayor Wilson on Saturday’s “No Kings” demonstration.

Travel Portland, a publicly funded nonprofit focused on tourism and regional promotion, is working with EMC Communications as part of a broader campaign to highlight the city’s efforts to improve quality of life and economic vitality. City officials clarified Portland is not financially involved in the EMC contract.

The city confirmed Monday that Mayor Keith Wilson’s recent statement — which took place near the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility over the weekend — was written entirely by the mayor’s office.

“The statement and messaging were crafted directly by Mayor Wilson’s office,” said city press officer Cody Bowman in an email. “While EMC [Communications] amplified the statement shortly afterward, they were not involved in its drafting.”

EMC Communications, based in California, described its role as helping share Portland’s progress with national audiences.

“This work was launched collaboratively by local partners to strengthen strategic communications around economic vitality, tourism and community engagement,” Bowman added. “The city has no financial role in the agreement.”

Portland, which has faced national scrutiny over protests and homelessness in recent years, has also worked to reaffirm its status as a sanctuary city while balancing public safety concerns.

“We’re here to make sure the news of their progress reaches people who live in the city, as well as those across the country,” said Conan Knoll, a partner at EMC. “Because we’re not based in Portland, we provide a fresh perspective and an unbiased eye.”

Wilson’s statement emphasized the city’s support for peaceful protest while condemning violent acts. Portland police arrested several people during the weekend demonstration after fireworks and other materials were reportedly used to damage the ICE facility.

Police say additional arrests may follow as investigations continue.

Key questions remain about Travel Portland’s partnership with EMC Communications, including how it’s funded, what it costs, and what outcomes the campaign aims to achieve. Travel Portland did not respond to a request for comment Monday.