early detection, health equity, and survivor support, joined by OHSU, the American
Cancer Society, and Pink Lemonade Project
Portland, OR. – The City of Portland will mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2025 with a
special event at City Hall on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, highlighting the lifesaving
importance of early detection, equitable access to care, and the power of community
support.
Sponsored by Councilor Jamie Dunphy, the day's events will include a community-focused
pre-council program in the City Hall Atrium and a pre-gavel presentation and proclamation
before the City Council meeting. The program will feature remarks from Councilor Dunphy,
Dr. Alexandra Zimmer of the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, a representative from the
American Cancer Society, Susan Stearns, CEO of the Pink Lemonade Project, and youth
advocate Nikhil Surya.
"Breast cancer affects nearly every family in every corner of our community. With advances
in preventative care and early detection, it's a disease that is not necessarily the death
sentence it once was," said Councilor Dunphy. "But it doesn't matter what scientific
advances we make if our neighbors can't access them or don't know they exist. With this
event, the City of Portland is joining our voices to a chorus of healthcare professionals,
advocates, survivors, and families in the fight to end the burden of cancer for everyone."
"I cannot imagine my life without my mom. And thanks to awareness and early detection, I
don't have to," said Surya. "This is why I'm committed to transforming awareness into
action and hope into healing for our entire community."
Pre-Council Program: Community Awareness & Empowerment
Time: 8:30–9:30 a.m. (Remarks at 9 a.m.)
Location: City Hall Atrium
The pre-council program will bring together civic leaders, healthcare professionals, nonprofit
partners, and youth advocates for a series of brief remarks and interactive engagement tables
focused on screening education and local resources.
Speakers will include:
• Councilor Jamie Dunphy
• Dr. Alexandra Zimmer, OHSU Knight Cancer Institute
• Missie Kallunki, volunteer with the American Cancer Society
• Susan Stearns, CEO, Pink Lemonade Project
• Youth Advocate Nikhil Surya
Community partners will share information on breast cancer screening, risk awareness, and
survivor support. Tables will be staffed by the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute, the American
Cancer Society, and the Pink Lemonade Project, with giveaways and refreshments coordinated
by volunteers.
City Council Pre-Gavel Presentation and Proclamation
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Location: Council Chambers, City Hall
Following the Atrium program, speakers will join City Council for a brief pre-gavel presentation.
The program will feature concise remarks from key partners and advocates before the formal
reading of the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month Proclamation, reaffirming the City's
commitment to health equity, early detection, and support for all who face breast cancer.
The event reflects Portland's shared commitment to advancing health equity, eliminating
barriers to care, and supporting survivors and their families. It also celebrates the ongoing work
of community organizations, medical professionals, and advocates who provide critical
resources and inspire action year-round.
Media Contact
Madeline West, Chief of Staff, Councilor Jamie Dunphy: Madeline.West@portlandoregon.gov