As big corporations steamroll local communities, Portland faces a pivotal moment: will we preserve the soul of our city, or will we hand it over to Live Nation? This proposed 3,300-capacity venue is the equivalent of a Walmart moving into town — driving out independent businesses, increasing traffic issues and erasing the character that makes Portland unique.

We are living in a time when conducting business dishonorably is the norm — a la Mr. Potter in “It’s a Wonderful Life” — squeezing out the little guy for profit. Live Nation, with its monopoly over the music industry, embodies this same mindset. Independent venues nationwide have learned the hard way: to challenge Live Nation is to risk annihilation.

The U.S. government’s antitrust lawsuit even protects venues’ identities out of fear of retaliation. Milestone Investors’ willingness to align with Live Nation, despite these concerns, raises serious ethical questions. Are they prioritizing community and fairness, or siding with the biggest player for maximum profit?

Live Nation’s executives suggest ride-sharing as a parking solution. But anyone who lives here knows that Uber and Lyft fares are skyrocketing. The idea that people will Uber from Windham or farther is absurd. Meanwhile, the venue’s location — next to Merrill Auditorium and near the State Theatre and Cross Insurance Arena — feels like a deliberate move to dominate the scene rather than complement it.

I love live performance. But Portland thrives because of its independent spirit. This is our chance to prove that community supports community. Let’s keep Portland’s arts scene truly local.

Tanay Soucie-Porter
South Portland