Several organizations across the Portland area are recognizing and honoring Black History Month throughout February. Read on to find new ways to get connected and educated around our city.
Cascade Festival of African Films
Four films — created by directors hailing from nations across Africa — give viewers a glimpse into African cultures, celebrating the continent’s achievements and highlighting its hopes for the future. The festival features in-person and online screenings.
- Where: Hollywood Theatre, PCC Cascade Campus (Moriarty Arts and Humanities Building, Room 104), and online
- When: Friday, Feb. 3-Saturday, March 4, times vary
- Cost: Free, donations encouraged
In My Shoes
Community ambassadors for the nonprofit leadership program Word is Bond will lead 45-minute walking tours through eight neighborhoods in the greater Portland area. These tours are also storytelling sessions designed to show why the neighborhoods matter to the young men who live there.
- Where: King, New Columbia, Woodlawn, Goose Hollow, Montavilla, Parkrose, and Albina neighborhoods, and Vancouver, WA
- When: Saturdays, Feb. 4-25, times vary
- Cost: $25 sliding scale donation
The NW Black Comedy Festival
More than 60 Black comics from around the world will descend on Portland for this four-day event. Get ready for hours of laughter with 10 showcases and four live podcasts.
- Where: Curious Comedy Theater, 5225 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
- When: Thursday, Feb. 16-Sunday, Feb. 19, times vary
- Cost: $20
2023 Biamp Portland Jazz Festival
Jazz masters and rising stars hailing from Portland and across the US will serenade Rose City for the 20th anniversary of this two-week celebration of jazz music, live entertainment, and education.
- Where: Locations vary
- When: Thursday, Feb. 16-Saturday, Feb. 25
- Cost: Prices vary
All Power to the People
This three-day event honoring Kent Ford, a founding member of the Portland chapter of the Black Panther Party, features a panel conversation with Ford, historians, activists, and educators, a screening of a short Vanport Mosaic-produced documentary, a stage performance of “Walking through Portland with a Panther,” and more.
- Where: Historic Alberta House, 5131 NE 23rd Ave.
- When: Friday, Feb. 24-Sunday, Feb. 26, times vary
- Cost: $5-$10