From the DataCenter's Youth Strategy Project, Winter 2002:

Transit Equity Victory in Portland

Sisters in Action for Power, a Portland-based organization that trains low-income women and girls for progressive political leadership, recently won a three year campaign to promote transportation equity for students. Portland's school system has no school buses, so students must rely on public transportation to get to school.

Sisters used a DataCenter profile on the mass transit system's new General Manager to appeal to his perspective. The DataCenter also identified discounts and additional services the Tri-Met offers business and suburban neighborhoods to encourage the system's use which they do not offer low-income urban residents. With this information, Sisters in Action was able to secure a new discounted transit pass for all students.

For further information or to get involved, contact: Sisters in Action, ph. 503.331.1244.