He is adamant about free media and the mission and power of a street newspaper
John Kadubec has explored all over the United States. He was a trucker for 22 years and has seen it all, and according to Kadubec, nowhere compares to Portland.
“Every time I came to the Pacific Northwest I told myself, ‘Don’t ever forget about this place,’” Kadubec said.
Kadubec resonates with the atmosphere of Portland. When asked what he might write for a Street Roots piece, his deep broadcaster-like voice rose above the hum of the coffee machine in the background and his eyes lit up with possibilities. He finally decided he would focus on the politics of Portland: how to keep the city accessible and equitable, preserve its culture and mitigate wealth disparity.
“I don’t want Portland to become another San Francisco,” Kadubec said shaking his head, “or overcrowded like Los Angeles.” He said this in the knowing tone of someone who has lived in Southern California.
Kadubec moved to the Portland area nine years ago and has been selling Street Roots in front of Multnomah County Courthouse and Oregon Health and Science University for the past five months. He has a number of regular customers and is learning names. For Kadubec, Street Roots is more than just a way to make a profit, it’s connection – a tool to tie together an increasingly divided society.
He engages with customers and passersby because “It’s out of my heart, not just out of a sale. It’s the start of a relationship.” Selling Street Roots has given Kadubec the confidence to reach out.
“I used to shy away from talking to people in general. (Street Roots) has given me an opportunity to practice my social skills and to show my better qualities.”
Positive feedback from customers helps. “It rejuvenates my spirit,” Kadubec said.
Kadubec grew up listening to his father’s stories of living in communist Ukraine, where personal letters were redacted and media were censored by the government. This is part of why Kadubec is so adamant about free media and the mission of Street Roots.
“We cannot stray from our voice. It is critical – vital – to a free society” Kadubec said. “Money doesn’t control Street Roots like other media. We are the free people.”
It is news by the people for the people that Kadubec believes will help decode the divisiveness plaguing society. For these reasons, he is proud to be a Street Roots vendor.
Kadubec is a person of conviction; he believes in the power of a place, the power of people and the power of a street newspaper. You can find him selling in front of either the courthouse or OHSU.
Street Roots is an award-winning, nonprofit, weekly newspaper focusing on economic, environmental and social justice issues. Our newspaper is sold in Portland, Oregon, by people experiencing homelessness and/or extreme poverty as means of earning an income with dignity. Learn more about Street Roots
