MLK DREAM RUN 2023

BY MICHELE DARR PHOTOGRAPHY FLOSSIN MEDIA

There is no doubt that America is sick and has been for quite some time. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses continue to be the leading causes of death and disability while unprecedented levels of stress and anxiety resulting from attempting to keep up with the lightening speed pace of our world are overloading our abilities to cope.

Here in the first world which seemingly guarantees endless options for nourishment, the majority of us are also struggling to mitigate the effects of hasty, on the go diets loaded with bad fats, salt, preservatives, dubious chemicals and sugar. Factor in unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol, drugs and harmaceuticals coupled with car-centric lifestyles which discourage physical activity, it is no wonder that we are facing a perfect storm of catastrophic health consequences in this nation.

Beyond scrolling past the grim statistics and maybe pausing for a minute to consider the personal implications, there still remain healthy, fun, life-affirming outlets and activities to consider when setting your course towards a longer, healthier, more fulfilling existence.

Now in its 12th year, the MLK Dream Run is a signature event that carries forth a rich tradition of supporting historically underserved Black and IPOC youth entrepreneurs and small

Hosted by the Soul District Business Association, the weekend-long MLK Dream Run celebration includes food, vendors, music and sponsors such as Alaska Airlines who will be giving away 12 round trip tickets to anywhere they fly. To access the full Run schedule including free meetups, training runs and other supportive activities leading up to the weekend celebration, you can visit our website or Facebook page for more information. To register as a runner/walker/volunteer, visit runsignup.com/Race/OR/Portland/MLKDreamRun.