
The Stoop Sam Diaz and Mary Kyle McCurdy from Oregon
Feb 20, 2025
In this engaging talk, Sam Diaz, Executive Director at 1000 Friends of Oregon, shares his family's immigration story while advocating for housing solutions. Mary Kyle McCurdy, Associate Director and Managing Attorney, dives into the transformative Middle Housing Bill, which has significantly increased housing diversity in Portland. They explore the intersection of zoning laws and segregation, the impact of local governance in infrastructure funding, and the vital role of bipartisan support in tackling Oregon's housing crisis.
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Exclusionary Design
- Single-family sprawl is often seen as a neutral given, but it is a deliberate design choice used for exclusionary purposes.
- Historical and familial trajectories impact income levels and access to housing, perpetuating these legacies.
Building Coalitions
- Build coalitions by focusing on tangible benefits and addressing specific community needs.
- Engage in direct outreach and facilitate conversations to build trust and consensus.
Non-Partisan Housing
- Housing policy is not always partisan. Opposition to housing reform can come from unexpected sources, even within progressive districts.
- Change is hard, so tell relatable stories about who needs housing and why.



