Celebrating Black History Month this February

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.  

Learn about the effort to put three landmarks of Portland Black history on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Golden West Hotel, owned by Central City Concern. 

Learn about African American History Month, including its history, from the official government website. 

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 y this list of all kinds of Black-owned businesses.