January 2nd marked a significant milestone for Portland as the newly elected City Council and restructured city government convened for their inaugural session in 2025. The Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) proudly celebrated this momentous occasion by highlighting the transformative power of arts, culture, and humanities.

The day began with music filling the North Atrium of City Hall, courtesy of Larry Yes, a Portland-based musician with more than 30 years of experience creating songs that focus on joy, positivity, and human connection. Larry’s upbringing as the son of a blues singer and his journey as a father have deeply influenced his heartfelt work. As Larry himself puts it: “Reaching for harmony and unison through collaboration is a blessing and my way of communing with the cosmos.” His performance set the perfect tone for a day dedicated to unity and renewal.

Inside the Council Chambers, two gifted RACC-supported artists took center stage to inspire and reflect on this new chapter for our city. Oregon Poet Laureate Anis Mojgani, a two-time National Poetry Slam champion and recipient of numerous prestigious fellowships, shared one of his beloved works, Forward, captivating the audience with his signature blend of warmth, lyricism, insight, and look to the future.

Following Anis, poet and mental health advocate Jen Shin shared an original piece written specifically for the occasion, Flow, inspired by our region-land of two rivers. As a Korean American writer and a 2023 Periplus Fellow, Jen’s work often delves into themes of healing and identity, shaped by her journey of recovery and self-discovery. Her poetic voice is a reminder of the resilience and creativity that define Portland’s artistic community.

This collaborative celebration of music and poetry highlights RACC’s commitment to ensuring that arts and culture remain central to Portland’s identity. As our city government embarks on this new era, RACC continues to work diligently to support artists, foster creativity, and provide access to arts and culture for all.

This event is a testament to the power of creativity in bringing people together during transformative times. Together, we look forward to building a Portland where imagination thrives, connections deepen, and our shared future is brighter than ever.