February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate the many accomplishments and contributions of Black Americans. Also known as African American History Month, the event started as a week founded by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926.
Black History Month is also a time for us at Central City Concern to reflect on our commitment to anti-racism, especially in light of Portland’s legacy of exclusion, displacement and disinvestment in Black communities. We have a responsibility to work to eliminate disparities in housing, health care and employment that disproportionately impact Black Portlanders and lead to their overrepresentation among the homeless population—not only in February, but all year round.
This February, we hope you’ll take some time to learn about Black history, in Oregon and beyond.
Listen to this conversation with educator, writer, organizer and spoken word artist Walidah Imarisha about the history of racism in Oregon, and see Imarisha’s “A Hidden History” timeline here.
Enjoy the free Annual Cascade Festival of African Films, virtually or in-person.
Check out this list of additional local Black History Month events
Want to support some local Black-owned businesses? Check out this list of Black-owned restaurants and this list of all kinds of Black-owned businesses.
