The Western Edge

The Western Edge

A Life of Observing, or How the Goon Squad Got Me to Quit Smoking

An ACLU legal observer reflects on how years of Portland protests changed him.

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James Mapes
Mar 18, 2026
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Editor's Note: On March 9, a federal judge in Oregon granted an injunction that prevents federal officers from indiscriminately using tear gas and other weapons against crowds of Portland protesters,…

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A guest post by
James Mapes
James is a writer and lighting designer based in Portland, OR.
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