Dealing with violence etc. on Max Train/Buses (Portland, Eugene: unemployment, living)

[TonyaJa]

Hi, I've been unable to find a support group for this issue which has me very much on edge.

I've ridden TriMet transportation for a long time off and on having lived in Portland, now on my third go round.

I finally was employed 7 1/2 months ago after nearly 17 months of unemployment and am back riding the Max to and from downtown. It has changed. No police presence on the train, no fare checking. I've had to get on the train intercom three times, and a few days ago I was threatened on the Gateway transit center platform.

If there is anyone who feels the same as I do, not safe, not having the money for a decent self-defense class, please let me know. Maybe we can share information, resources, tips on this subject.


Many thanks.

[fortunatus]

I am with you. I am not a regular rider, but even with my limited Tri-Met experience I've run into some uncomfortable situations.

Our teenage daughter recently got her first job; she does not feel safe to use Tri-Met buses after dark. We pick her up/drop her off as needed for later commutes.

[fortunatus]

As for MAX tips, I scan the train as it approaches for the safest car to ride in, based on my perception of its population. I put on an unapproachable air, get in and head for a seat. During the trip, I look out the window or tap my phone - no eye contact with anybody, but very aware of my surroundings.

[Nell Plotts]

I have encountered fare checkers on the MAX.

[TonyaJa]

Originally Posted by fortunatus

As for MAX tips, I scan the train as it approaches for the safest car to ride in, based on my perception of its population. I put on an unapproachable air, get in and head for a seat. During the trip, I look out the window or tap my phone - no eye contact with anybody, but very aware of my surroundings.

Hi, thank you for your responses. Very appreciated. I also try to do the same.



I've had to get on the intercom three times since I started riding again; once, the police had to come.


Before I was unemployed and living near Beaverton, I had to come to the aid of a woman bus driver and tell a man to get out of her face as he threatened her to turn the bus around (she missed his stop or he didn't ring the bell, I can't remember). He was gesticulating with his hands and nearly hit her in the face.



Last week I was threatened while standing on the Gateway T.C. platform because I asked a couple standing right in front of the doors as I tried to leave the train, to move. Immediately, the woman got aggressive and started in.


Frankly, I'm more afraid of what I might do because these people are not worth going to jail for.


I found a place called One with Heart that offers a Self Defense workshop for women every couple of months. The next one is in March I believe. $99 for four hours. I may do that one. Maybe it would empower your daughter? Just a suggestion.

[StealthRabbit]

Elderly friend was robbed and beaten at gateway MAX.

When the bad eggs take control, the fare paying public loses and eventually only bad eggs can ride.

Many businesses have recently had to leave Portland under similar conditions. 5 lifelong Portland resident friends moved their families to Vancouver this year (out of personal safety concerns.)

[soarswitheagles]

See if Warrior Sisters has a group or classes in your area. They do in Eugene and I think in Portland. One of the weekly meetings in Eugene is free. They helped my daughter immensely in learning self-defense, threat assessment, and support. https://warrior-sisters.org/

Looks like they just had a free training. I would FB message or call them. https://www.facebook.com/events/857252508048015/

[ccjarider]

Originally Posted by StealthRabbit

Elderly friend was robbed and beaten at gateway MAX.

When the bad eggs take control, the fare paying public loses and eventually only bad eggs can ride.

Many businesses have recently had to leave Portland under similar conditions. 5 lifelong Portland resident friends moved their families to Vancouver this year (out of personal safety concerns.)

It seems the decline of Portland continues.

Perhaps Portland needs groups like this:
https://www.messynessychic.com/2019/...ardian-angels/

[TonyaJa]

Originally Posted by soarswitheagles

See if Warrior Sisters has a group or classes in your area. They do in Eugene and I think in Portland. One of the weekly meetings in Eugene is free. They helped my daughter immensely in learning self-defense, threat assessment, and support. https://warrior-sisters.org/

Looks like they just had a free training. I would FB message or call them. https://www.facebook.com/events/857252508048015/

Thank you!

[Luckystrike1]

I don't like to ride MAX but I do. Long ago I used to read books to break the boredom but not anymore. I watch people around me like a hawk. A couple of years ago, in the middle of a hot summer day, a guy entered wearing a long black leather coat with gloves and a hat I watched his hand and was ready to hop off the next stop if it looked like he was going to reach inside for a weapon.