Flowers, signs added to where Portland's elk statue once stood

PORTLAND, Ore. — A memorial stands where Portland’s famous elk statue once stood.

Supporters added flowers and posters with messages like “hold elected officials accountable.”

Essie Ashton, who’s been attending the downtown Portland protests, says their goal was to make the space peaceful and evoke a larger message about rebuilding.

“There are bigger things that need to be focused on and we are peacefully here to show people with signage and flowers with this memorial - what it is that needs to change,” said Ashton.

Ashton adds she hopes all of this attention will encourage change.