STATEMENT FROM PORTLAND CITY COUNCILORS MORILLO, KANAL, AVALOS, KOYAMA-LANE, GREEN ON THE PASSING OF DAN HANDELMAN, LONGTIME ADVOCATE FOR JUSTICE AND POLICE ACCOUNTABILITY
We’re heartbroken by the passing of Dan Handelman, a pillar of Portland’s police accountability movement. Dan was a co-founding member of both Portland Copwatch and Peace and Justice Works and a member and co-chair of the Police Accountability Commission, and he dedicated his life to challenging systems of injustice and advocating for community safety rooted in accountability and care.
Dan wasn’t just a watchdog—he was a steady, principled force in a movement that often demands both courage and resilience. For decades, he showed up with unwavering integrity, persistence, and deep compassion. He monitored police conduct, educated the public, and provided crucial analysis that helped shape Portland’s ongoing efforts for police accountability. He was a reliable presence at countless hearings, meetings, and actions—always prepared, always principled. Dan’s commitment to justice wasn’t performative — he lived it every day. He held power to account with clarity and purpose, and empowered others to do the same. His impact is immeasurable.
We extend our sympathies to his loved ones.