Oregon’s only statewide African American historical society turns 30 next month and is hosting its first fundraising event since 2019 to celebrate.
Founded in 1993, Oregon Black Pioneers works to illuminate the history of Black Oregonians through exhibits and various programs. The nonprofit organization preserves and publicly presents historical photographs, oral histories on instrumental figures, a digital collection of newspapers published by Black Portlanders between 1944 and 1974, interactive maps of important sites, free inclusive lesson plans for teachers, and much more.
The anniversary fundraiser takes place Sunday, Sept. 17, at The Redd on Salmon Street.
Oregon City Mayor Denyse McGriff is the keynote speaker. Tickets are $125 and include meals and live music.
“Every donation helps us move one step closer to achieving our vision of becoming the preeminent resource for the study of Oregon’s African American history and culture,” said Executive Director Zachary Stocks.