Oregon Black Pioneers to Mark 30 Year Anniversary With Fundraising Celebration in Portland

Oregon Black Pioneers, Oregon’s only statewide African American historical society, is marking its 30th anniversary this September with an event in Portland. The organization’s 30th anniversary celebration will take place on Sunday, Sept. 17 at The Redd.

The theme for the event is “Shining a Light on Oregon’s Black History,” in recognition of the programming for which Oregon Black Pioneers’ is best known. Since 1993, the organization has illuminated the seldom-told history of people of African descent in Oregon through exhibits, public programs and education.

This September’s event is a fundraiser, as Oregon Black Pioneers hopes to raise funds in support of its educational mission.

“This year’s event is especially important to us,” says Executive Director Zachary Stocks.

“Our hardworking nonprofit has accomplished so much since 1993. Since our last fundraising event in 2019 we’ve grown to a staff of three, created new programs and exhibit, and launched a new website.” Stocks adds, “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.”

Board President Kimberly Moreland is excited for this chance to reconnect, “We look forward to making wonderful memories with our friends and supporters this evening. And we hope to meet many new advocates, allies and friends we haven’t been able to connect with over the last three years.”

Oregon Black Pioneers’ celebration is made possible through the support of several corporate sponsors: Pioneer Trust Bank, Northwest Health Foundation, Urban League of Portland, Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators, Providence Health and Services, Columbia Distributing and Moreland Resource Consulting.

The celebration takes place from 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 17 in Portland. Tickets are $125. Meals by Miss’ipi Chef are included with every ticket purchase. From 5:15 p.m. – 6 p.m. there will be music and dancing with a performance by Ocean 503.

Tickets and more information can be found at http://oregonblackpioneers.org/30th-anniversary-celebration.