Oregon Black Pioneers

Oregon Black Pioneers Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only statewide African American historical society. Oregon Black Pioneers is a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

We preserve and present the 400+ year history of people of African descent in Oregon through original research, exhibitions, publications and programs. Your support helps us commemorate the Black Oregonian experience. Please consider making a donation today on our website, at https://oregonblackpioneers.org/donate/

Were here and we're making our marks, we're telling our story.We're a constant thread in Oregon's fabric, that's who we ...
09/06/2026

Were here and we're making our marks, we're telling our story.
We're a constant thread in Oregon's fabric, that's who we are.
And this organization strives every day to make sure of that.
~ Willie B. Richardson, Oregon Black Pioneers

We’re heading into the end of Black History Quest, the series, but don’t be sad, Pionerds, we still have two episodes to...
09/03/2026

We’re heading into the end of Black History Quest, the series, but don’t be sad, Pionerds, we still have two episodes to share!

Who were the Black Oregonians who participated in WWII as Tuskegee Airmen, and how did they contribute to the history of World War II, aviation history, and Oregon Black Pioneers? Join host Mariah Rocker and guest History Investigator Dave Hedberg, principal historian for Outdoor History Consulting, as they explore more in this penultimate Black History Quest! This presentation will share ongoing research about Robert and Carl Diez, two brothers from Portland who trained as Tuskegee Airmen during WWII, and highlight how their local stories are part of a much larger national and global story.

Wednesday, September 30 at 7:00PM streaming live on Facebook and YouTube!

https://www.facebook.com/share/18yUCYbsBz/

Looking for some Oregon Black history? Catch an OBP presentation or traveling exhibit in person! Find out where at the l...
09/01/2026

Looking for some Oregon Black history? Catch an OBP presentation or traveling exhibit in person! Find out where at the link!

oregonblackpioneers.org/where-is-oregon-black-pioneers-2026/

Astoria, this is your time! Oregon Black Pioneers' walking tour season is almost over. Portland tours are sold out but A...
08/31/2026

Astoria, this is your time! Oregon Black Pioneers' walking tour season is almost over. Portland tours are sold out but Astoria has tickets available! Each Black History Walking Tour explores locations all around Oregon, stopping at places connected to each area’s African American history. Themes include resilience, perseverance, Black-owned businesses, community change, and civil rights. All tours begin at 10:00am.

👟 Astoria 9/12

Get tickets here: oregonblackpioneers.org/tours/

08/29/2026

The Quest Continues again! Click the link for a Black History Quest update from your host and fellow Oregon Black Pionerd, Mariah Rocker, a recap of the most recent episode, and a peek at what’s to come!

oregonblackpioneers.org/the-quest-continues-episode-13

08/27/2026

Some of these trees have been standing here for hundreds of years—and part of the reason they’re still here is because of a Black woman named Estella Ehelebe. Let Jesse tell you more in this Oregon Black History Snap shot!

Class Notes is OBP's Education newsletter! It keeps educators in the loop about lesson plans, partnership pathways, and ...
08/25/2026

Class Notes is OBP's Education newsletter! It keeps educators in the loop about lesson plans, partnership pathways, and classroom resources that bring Oregon's Black history to life. You can also sign up for our general monthly newsletter or the Letitia Carson Legacy Project newsletter at the same link.

We've got all the Oregon Black history news YOU can use! Sign up now!

https://bit.ly/OBPNews

08/22/2026

Zachary found some Oregon Black history in Philly! He's attending the Association of African American Museums conference in Philadelphia and stumbled on a location that connects east and west coasts via one intrepid Black pioneer.

Want to show your support in style? Check out our new store!Here you'll find Oregon Black Pioneers' essential history bo...
08/20/2026

Want to show your support in style? Check out our new store!

Here you'll find Oregon Black Pioneers' essential history books, logo hats, stickers, t-shirts, patches, and mugs, PLUS merch that honors four historic Black-owned businesses on the Oregon Coast. Help us spread the word about Oregon's Black history!

Your purchase of OBP merch supports our mission to research, recognize, and commemorate the history and heritage of African Americans in Oregon.

oregonblackpioneers.org/store

08/18/2026

Last chance tickets for Salem! Oregon Black Pioneers' walking tour season is winding down. Each Black History Walking Tour explores locations connected to the area’s African American history. Themes include Black-owned businesses, community change, and civil rights. All tours begin at 10:00am.

👟 Portland 8/22, 9/12, 9/26
👟 Salem 8/22
👟 Astoria 9/12

Get tickets here: oregonblackpioneers.org/tours/

Address

4713 N Albina Avenue BOX 102
Portland, OR
97217

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