Hello Friends and Fellow Psychonauts,

With such a massive gathering, there was so much to see, learn, and experience, so it was impossible to do it all. The conference featured close to twenty “tracks” covering topics areas like science, therapy, studies, society, policy, community - to name a few. Under the same roof there were doctors, lawyers, politicians, advocates, artists, entrepreneurs, therapists, musicians, and many other professions and disciplines convening to share their experience and knowledge. A true multidisciplinary movement blending the best of psychedelic science, art, music, and culture. And that was just what was going on inside the Colorado Convention Center! The city of Denver truly became “psychedelic” for the week with countless networking events, concerts, workshops, and social gatherings commemorating the magnitude of the moment, including a very surreal and fun late night takeover of Meow Wolf. 

Naturally, I was drawn to the sessions that focused on community, society, and policy. The range and depth of topics being explored in these areas gave me inspiration and excitement to bring back to our own city and community. The recurring themes that stood out the most focused on the continued importance of public education, harm reduction, social justice, ethics, and safety with psychedelics in our communities. This feels critically important as more and more people are becoming further curious and aware of psychedelics’ potential benefits (and potential pitfalls). From a policy and cultural perspective, we are still in the early stages of the work to create safer, informed, and equitable access to psychedelics in our communities.

One of the most moving parts of the conference was seeing so many familiar faces from Oregon—colleagues, collaborators, and friends—each representing different parts of our psychedelic ecosystem. It reminded me just how strong and visionary our local community really is. We may be a small state in population, but Oregon continues to play a significant role in shaping the future of this movement. I say that with both humility and pride. We are fortunate to have so much talent and wonderful souls right here in our own backyard.

As the psychedelic field continues to grow and mature, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: the future of this movement depends on authentic community building. While research, clinical models, and policy reform remain essential pillars, it is our local communities that will ultimately hold the container for safe, informed, and meaningful psychedelic experiences. This was echoed in a wonderful gathering hosted by the Global Psychedelic Society—a kind of mini “leadership summit” where organizers from around the world came together to share stories, strategies, and visions for integrated, supportive communities.

There’s a collective shift happening that centers relationship, care, and grassroots support. As we navigate complex challenges like access, equity, and public education, it’s clear that real progress will require strong, trusted community networks to help individuals heal, grow, and connect.

It was also incredibly affirming to hear from many peers and leaders in the psychedelic space who acknowledged the work we’re doing at PPS. It can be easy to get lost in the day-to-day hustle, but this experience reminded me that what we’re building together here in Portland is meaningful and recognized beyond our city limits. Your contributions—whether as volunteers, members, donors, or participants—are making a difference.

To top it all off, we had some exciting milestones while in Denver. After nearly a month of being erroneously banned, our Instagram account was miraculously reinstated—just in time to help us connect with the global community again. We also launched our beautiful new website, featuring clearer information, new resources, and photos that reflect the heart and soul of our community. Huge shout out to our Creative Director, Brie Leagjeld, for your hard work and vision on that project! Check it out.

We’re entering an exciting new phase of growth. This year, we’re expanding our leadership team, formalizing new volunteer roles, and building out a stronger organizational backbone to sustain our community-led work. We’re laying the foundation for a future physical space in Portland that can serve as a hub for psychedelic healing, culture, and connection. We’re also continuing our advocacy efforts in preparation for the Portland Psychedelic Health Act this fall, deepening partnerships across sectors, and offering more integration circles, workshops, and storytelling events to support those navigating their psychedelic journeys. In all of this, our goal remains the same: to cultivate a safe, informed, and inclusive psychedelic community that can serve as a model for other cities and regions.

Coming out of this experience, we’re feeling deeply inspired and ready for the next chapter. And we want you to be a part of it.

1. Become a Member: Membership helps sustain our programs and grow our impact. Learn more and sign up here:  www.portlandpsychedelic.org/become-a-member
   
   
2. Join us at our Leadership Open House:
    

📅 Tuesday, August 19, 2025
🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Bridgespace – 133 SE Madison St, Portland, OR