Candidate Royceann Porter

Iowa City is my home. I am the wife of Anthony and the proud mother of two daughters, Antonia and Staci, who both graduated from Regina High School. I was born and raised in Saginaw, Mich., and moved to Iowa nearly 25 years ago. We are very happy living in Iowa City. Our neighborhood on the southeast side is a wonderful place and we were able to buy a modest home here.

I have a love and compassion for helping others, for finding the good in people. I have always been involved in our community by offering support directly to individuals and families. I work for a non-profit agency as a case manager.

Our City Council must include members who can relate personally to people of all races and ethnicities, no matter where they're living or what their circumstances may be. wI want to bring compassion back into public office.

Racial profiling is one of the most important issues facing residents of Iowa City. I often talk to people who tell me of unwarranted arrests and harassment by police, of wrongfully losing their housing, and of being so poorly served by the bus system they can barely get to work, do their shopping, and go to their children's events at school.

Two recent studies confirm these personal stories. The Council's Diversity Committee stated “the police department is currently functioning under a ‘control and monitor' approach to dealing with our minority citizens, which has led to mutual feelings of distrust.”

Additionally, the Coalition for Racial Justice concluded that “Significant and troubling racial disparities exist in our community in education, juvenile justice, adult criminal justice, economic well-being, housing and representation in community leadership.“

I believe that my experience in the community of helping individuals and families, of being active in racial and worker coalitions, of participating in programs that serve minorities, and with having good relationships with city police and staff all make me uniquely able to resolve issues of racial inequity.

Embracing the diversity of Iowa City by engaging with the whole community is my passion. It is who I am.

Comments: royceann@shelterhouseiowa.org