February is Black History Month!
In celebration of Black History Month, let’s take this time to educate ourselves and honor the profound contributions that Black and African Americans have made in shaping both our nation’s history and future, including right here in Portland, OR.
Below are some upcoming events and avenues to learn more:
Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. Meet some of the people, places, objects, and stories that make up the Black Oregonian experience. Explore their projects, collections, maps, and publications on their website and contribute to their efforts HERE.
The Cascade Festival of African Films happening now through March 1st shows us Africa through the eyes of Africans, rather than a vision of Africa packaged for Western viewers. The films celebrate Africa’s achievements, expose its failures, and reveal possibilities for a hopeful future. Although the films cannot represent an entire continent, they hope to encourage American viewers to become interested in and study African cultures.
Learn more HERE.Celebrate Black History Month this Saturday with WomenFirst! Enjoy performances by WomenFirst participants, African dancers, JREP Youth Speakers, Raffle prizes, food, and music. Scan attached to RSVP.
The Multnomah County Library has put together a list of titles that speak to Portland’s Black History. Find those HERE.
