Good afternoon, everyone!
It feels great to be back here in North Portland, my former district and favorite part of Portland. New Columbia is perfect location to reflect on the past and be hopeful about the future. It is an honor to be with you today to celebrate Black History Month – a time for reflection, recognition, and recommitment to the values of equity and inclusiveness that are essential to our state and our nation.
We gather here not only to recognize the remarkable contributions of Black Americans and Black Oregonians but also to acknowledge their ongoing struggles for justice and equality. From the resilience of the civil rights movement to the cultural richness that Black communities have contributed to various fields – arts, science, politics, and beyond – we are reminded that the story of Black Americans is woven into the very fabric of our nation.
Black history is Oregon history. Black history is American history. And, no matter what, that cannot be erased or denied.
When I was first running for the legislature, I had the good fortune to knock on Charles Jordan’s door. He graciously invited me inside. We had a lovely chat, and I fondly recall his thoughtful questions and quiet sense of humor. As the City of Portland’s first Black member of the city council – he served for a decade in that role – and, later, the head of Portland Parks and Recreation for 14 years, his leadership shaped the city we love today, especially the wonderful system of parks that serves all generations of Portlanders. I’m thrilled the nearby, fabulous Charles Jordan Community Center serves families in this neighborhood. We should celebrate Black leaders from yesterday and those who are building future legacies today.
The misguided, misinformed, hateful conversations dominating the national debate right now are extremely troubling, and could set us back for decades. Oregonians know that diverse perspectives and inclusivity of those perspectives and lived experiences make us stronger, wiser, and more successful. The attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are tone deaf to what people, in the end, really want – which is belonging for themselves, for others, and opportunity for everyone.
Black History Month is about those values. And that’s why we’re celebrating today. And celebration is also resistance to those who would pull our country backward.
And, as we celebrate, let us also reflect on the work that remains. It is imperative that we continue to dismantle systemic barriers and build a future where all Oregonians can thrive. This means investing in education, supporting economic opportunities, and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued in our communities.
I encourage all of you to continue to engage in the conversations that matter – to listen, to learn, and to act. Let us recommit, this month and beyond, to a vision of Oregon where diversity is celebrated and equity is not just an aspiration, but a reality.
In closing, I want to express my gratitude to each of you for your commitment to honoring Oregon’s Black history, not just this month but every day. May we leave here today inspired to engage in our communities, to foster understanding, and to stand firmly against injustice.
Together, we will work towards a more just and inclusive Oregon for everyone.
Thank you.