What bad habits does Portland encourage?
It’s clear that we’ve picked up questionable beliefs and dubious ways of doing things. Maybe it’s the constant rain, the traffic, or just our unique city culture. But we’re also self-aware, right? We can look in the mirror and acknowledge some of our faults.
Here are some of Portland’s toxic traits:
☂️ Anti-Umbrella Madness
It’s wet here. Umbrellas are good for keeping dry. And yet there’s a macho approach to never using an umbrella. Plus, there’s lore that only outsiders actually carry umbrellas. It’s time to reconsider.
“It's okay Portlanders; it's okay to let go of this rumor; it's okay to just — with pride — have an umbrella,” says comedian Jay Flewelling, who grew up in Oregon.
☀️🌧️ Hating the Weather
It’s spring. It’s incredibly rainy, and when it’s not, it becomes unbearably sunny. We’re spoiled by mild winters and put-upon by so much wet weather. There’s a narrow range of temperatures that Portlanders can agree are comfortable — from 65 to 72 degrees, roughly speaking.
“I am always annoyed by the weather,” says City Cast Portland host Claudia Meza.
🏴 Wearing a Black Jacket To Walk at Night, in Rain
We like to wear dark colors, whether it’s just right for a dreary day or because black looks good. But black is also really hard to see. That sets up a hazard when walking in the rain or late in the day.
“My Portland toxic trait is wearing black coats and jackets all of the time,” says comedian Imani Denae. “Even though I jaywalk heavily, I still stand by wearing black all of the time.”
The official Zoobomb Pyle. (Mark E. McClure)
🚌 🚕🚲 Never Happy on the Road
Portlanders are far more likely to walk and bike, even as we drive a lot. That means we have a chance to see the road from different perspectives. But it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s less annoying when a pedestrian crosses abruptly or a driver cuts off a bus.
“ I switch how I feel about right-of-way etiquette based on which transit mode I'm using,” says City Cast Portland executive producer John Notarianni.
We all know we could use a little more compassion out there, but other people make it so hard 😆
🎧 Listen for more toxic Portland traits on the City Cast Portland podcast.
📲 Your turn:
What beliefs or habits are very Portland but maybe time to let go of? Please share your view.
