Looking for Leadership

The current generation of leaders often poses the question, "Where will the future leadership come from?" This is an important discussion to have as the coming election year approaches. Future leadership must come from the younger generation that can bring their experience as Oregonians to the lawmaking process. As Oregon becomes increasingly diverse, it is vital that the state's policymakers reflect this diversity.

I doubt that anyone disputes the fact that Portland's black community lacks political power and visibility. Yet, a handful of African American forerunners in the Oregon political arena are laying the groundwork for diverse populations to follow suit. In my opinion, no community is a monolith. It would be impossible for one person to represent the diversity that exists within any one community. Rather, it is essential that representation be well-rounded in both number and point of view.

I am an African American who grew up in Portland and a member of the emerging generation. It is not only my goal, but also my expectation, to lead both younger African American leaders and younger leaders from all communities into service.

I am the leader I have been waiting for. You are the leader you have been waiting for. We are the leaders we have been waiting for.

Together we can create measurable results for the common good of Portland and this state.

Cyreena Boston, a graduate of St. Mary's Academy and Spelman College, is the former constituency director for the Oregon Democratic Party. She has filed as a candidate in the May 2008 primary to represent House District 45 in Northeast Portland