In yesterday’s download of my Interstate rename notes, there was mention of a public comment in the form of a poem. However, that Arbor Lodge Neighborhood Association meeting had a 30-second comment rule, sparking a five minute debate on whether or not the poet would be able to read her poem. She eventually did read the poem, after another neighbor ceded their time to her.

I’ve obtained the poem—which also ran on the front page of the St. Johns Review—and in a flagrant disregard for the “no poetry” rules here at the Portland Mercury, here you go!

“Please, Don’t Rename Streets!”
by Glenda A. Haynes

Please listen. Please hear me. I must say my piece!
This renaming of North Portland Streets, it must cease!
I speak for the “Names of Streets”, known all my life
that hold history, dignity, prosperity, and strife.
Cesar Chavez should be honored in some way, no doubt…
Just don’t ask my old friend, “Interstate Avenue”, to move out!
Pay tribute with something new, still being planned,
Our great city of Portland will grow and expand
to accommodate names of pioneers we adore…
Please, wait a while longer! Please, listen some more!
Why, “Rosa Parks Way” and “MLK Jr.” replace
the thoroughfares two of my old friends used to grace.
“Portland Blvd.” and “Union Avenue” are names gone for all time…
Please, Please, don’t take any more old friends of mine!
Be patient! Your heroes will shine bright one day,
without costs for ‘renaming’ that taxpayers must pay!
I’m hopeful my old friends can stop being afraid
of fading from memory, while new ones are made.
These streets where so many have proudly called home…
Please, don’t take their names! Please, Please, leave them alone!