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2017 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
‘City
of
Roses’
Special Edition
www.portlandobserver.com Established in 1970
Volume XLVI • Number 2 Wednesday • January 11, 2017 Committed to Cultural Diversity
Page 2 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Kate Brown Sworn In The
Week
versity is not a threat; it is, in fact
Making it clear our greatest strength,” Merkley
Review
that the fight for said.
equality will not in PCC Chair Quits Post
retreat after the
The chair of Portland Communi-
most bitter and
ple with disabilities because of ty College board has resigned to
divisive national
$338 in back due rent. protest a recent decision to make
election in mem-
the college a sanctuary campus.
ory, Kate Brown
was sworn in to her first full term
Bracing for More Snow Gene Pitts said his concern was
Just as Portland began to thaw for students losing their feder-
as governor of Oregon Monday. In
out from a weekend of snow and al Pell grants, should the federal
her speech, she outlined plans to
freezing rain, a new storm front is government under the Trump ad-
address job creation, reforming Or-
expected to hit the city overnight ministration penalize sanctuary
egon’s tax system, public transpor-
Tuesday into Wednesday morn- designations that deny federal im-
tation funding, passing gun control
ing, bringing an accumulation of migration enforcement.
legislation and expanding the state’s
1-4 inches of snow.
Medicaid program for all children. Viola Davis Honored
Third Hypothermia Death Merkley Wants Registry Ban “Moonlight,” the critically and
U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon audience acclaimed coming of
Athird homeless person has died
introduced legislation Friday that age story of an African American Firefighters respond when a fire erupts at the Hotel Alder, displac-
from hypothermia in Portland, the
would block the creation of any boy in the South won Best Mo- ing low-income housing residents, downtown.
third this month blamed on living
national immigration-related reg- tion Picture at the Golden Globe
outside in freezing temperatures.
Karen Batts, 52, was found dead
at a downtown parking garage on
istry program that classifies people
based upon their religion, race, age,
Awards Sunday. Viola Davis won
Best Supporting Actress for her Fire Victims Given Shelter
gender, ethnicity, national origin or portrayal of Rose in Denzel Wash- Central City Concern, the hous- teers also helped with replacing
Saturday. Records show she was
citizenship. “Contrary to the Pres- ington’s directorial adaptation of ing provider which operates the eye glasses, prescriptions, serving
evicted last October from afford-
ident-elect’s beliefs, America’s di- August Wilson’s “Fences.” low-income Hotel Alder apart- warm meals and providing beds
able housing for seniors and peo-
ments, hopes to find permanent for 70 people. Other residents
housing by the end of the week for stayed with loved ones.
62 residents displaced by a fire at Officials have determined that
the complex. Repairs to the build- the 3 alarm fire was caused by
ing may allow other residents to the historic building’s mechani-
return in two weeks, officials said. cal problems. Significant water
The Jan. 4 fire displaced 98 res- and smoke damage affected three
idents in total. Many were given floors.
temporary shelter within a few Central City Concern is accept-
hours of the fire at a nearby church ing cash donations, emergency
and later at a new temporary shel- clothing and other items to help
ter at Portland State University’s fire victims. Visit centralcitycon-
Howard Hall. Red Cross volun- cern.org/donates.
Cover Art by Lori A. Martin (LORIBYDESIGN)
Established 1970 ---------------------- USPS 959 680 ------------------ 4747 NE Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Portland, OR 97211
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January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 3
2017 special edition
INSIDE
This page
Sponsored by:
The
Week in Review page 2
Local News
Martin Luther King Jr. Alarmed by Trump
Professor sees
Calendar page 23
parallels to era of
Obituary page 28-29
Martin Luther King Jr.
by Zachary Senn
The Portland Observer
Opinion pages 30-31
As the nation transitions from its first black
president to an incoming president-elect who ran
his campaign on divisive and racially-charged lan-
guage, an expert in race relations at Portland State
University sees parallels between our current time
and the era of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dr. Shirley Jackson is a professor and chair of
the Black Studies Department at PSU. Since as-
suming her position in January of last year, she has
continued the department’s nearly 50-year legacy
of educating students and the community at large
about the issues facing communities of color in the Shirley Jackson
Portland area.
Jackson says one of the defining characteristics Jackson cites between then and now, are fears for
of MLK’s civil rights era was political activism by the future of free speech, with activists and students
students, the response to injustices that she believes of color “feeling as though their voices are going to
has once again reached a fever-pitch on today’s be stifled with the new administration coming in.”
campuses. Jackson says that modern-day activists should
Metro page 33 “We do see students on college campuses again
taking the lead, as they did in the 1960s… Pushing
also prepare to face the same repercussions that
Continued on Page 20
for answers,” she says. However, one big difference
Drum Major Ecumenical Service
Panel panel discussion, “Where do we
go from here,” led by moderator
discussion to Bill Deiz.
It has a been a tradition at the
highlight MLK Drum Major celebration for a key-
note speaker to address the con-
celebration gregation, but when Pastor Hen-
nessee saw the fears, anger and
by Christa McIntyre sadness which have risen in the
The Portland Observer community since the recent pres-
One of the oldest African idential election, he decided to ad-
American congregations in the dress them with a panel of speak-
state, the Vancouver Avenue First ers to cover a diverse cross section
Baptist Church, will host people of community and city leaders.
of faith from across the state this Members of the panel are Rab-
weekend to honor of the late civil bi Michael Cahana from Congre-
rights leader Dr. Rev. Martin Lu- gation Beth Israel, Attorney and
ther King Jr. Portland Urban League President
The two-day commemoration Nkenge Harmon Johnson, U.S.
of Dr. King’s work for justice, District Attorney of Oregon Billy
Rev. Matt Hennessee
peace and righteousness will be- J. Williams, Portland Police Chief
pages
Arts& 32-38
ENTERTAINMENT
gin Saturday, Jan. 14 with a noon
luncheon in the church fellowship
hall to honor students and com-
munity members who live their
church’s main sanctuary, 3138 N.
Vancouver Ave.
Pastor J.W. Matt Hennessee
will lead the service. Pastor E.D.
Mike Marshman, Executive Di-
rector of Ecumenical Ministries
of Oregon Jan Elfers, Director
of the Muslim Education Trust
lives in the drum major spirit of Mondainé will sing the African Wajdi Said, Multnomah Coun-
King; and conclude with the an- American National Anthem, and ty District Attorney Rod Under-
nual Drum Major Awards and Ec- Gov. Kate Brown and new Mayor hill, Nathaniel Williams of Unify
Classifieds page 38 umenical Service on Sunday, Jan.
15, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the
Ted Wheeler will share a few brief
words. A special focus will be a
Continued on Page 24
Page 4 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
A Refuge for Immigrants in Uncertain Times
Pastor leads Pastor Knutson was on the
coast, presiding over a sea burial,
movement for when the call came in that Immi-
gration and Customs Enforcement
social justice (ICE) was attempting to deport
Aguirre. Without hesitation, he
by Christa McIntyre told his staff to take Aguirre in.
The Portland Observer Aguirre spent the first night sleep-
Pastor Mark Knutson is a na- ing on the red carpeted church
tional leader in a movement for altar, a place where Knutson cel-
social justice for immigrants ebrates communion with his con-
struggling to obtain legal status gregation and delivers sermons
in the United States. Northeast many times on weekends.
Portland’s Augustana Lutheran ICE is the country’s second
Church, a multicultural congrega- largest criminal investigative
tion where he serves as a spiritual agency, next to the FBI under the
Department of Homeland Securi-
ty. Once an immigrant enters the
U.S. without visas or other official
channels, they are legally consid-
ered criminals. Since the 1970’s
many Central and South Ameri-
can citizens have fled oppressive
and violent governments; not all
photo by Christa McIntyre/The Portland Observer
of them can afford or wait out the
The doors of northeast Portland’s Augustana Lutheran Church are posted with notices explaining how long process to enter the Unit-
the church is a sanctuary with no guns, weapons or any use of force allowed. ed States legally. Some of them
leader, is one of the few churches After 81 days of living in the expiration date of a visa. must move quickly to avoid being
to provide sanctuary for immi- sanctuary of the church, Aguirre “As faith communities we killed by violent factions or drug
grants in fear of being deported. returned home to his wife and two have to always follow what we cartels in their home countries.
When a Portland resident and small children. It was one of few preach,” Knutson said. “Love. Knutson learned firsthand
immigrant named Francisco Agu- cases in the last decade where a Be as gentle as doves, but as wise through Aguirre’s showdowns in
irre was being pursued by federal church has offered physical sanc- as serpents. Be ready to confront federal court and the battles with
immigration authorities, Knutson tuary to a foreign-born person challenge. Love, without justice, local and national media what it
and his church reached out to pro- without documents to be in the never works. You have to be ready
vide him protection. U.S. or who has stayed beyond the to march, confront and advocate.”
Continued on Page 8
Pastor Mark Knutson
January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 5
2017 special edition
Page 6 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Rosa Clemente
Scholar on
Black Identity
Speaker to honor MLK
legacy at Clark College
Clark College will honor the teachings
of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Wednes-
day, Jan. 18, with “Transformation: A New
Era of Social Activism,” a keynote address
delivered by Rosa Clemente, a scholar on
black identity.
The event, which is free and open to
the public, will be held in Gaiser Student
Center on Clark’s main Vancouver campus
from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Clemente is co-founder of the National
Hip-Hop Political Convention and a lead-
ing scholar on Afro-Latinx identity. From
Harvard to prisons, she has spent her life
dedicated to scholar activism.
She is currently a doctoral student in the
W.E.B. Dubois department of University
of Massachusetts-Amherst. Throughout
her scholarly career, she has been a con-
stant presence through the many political
struggles facing black people and persons
of Latin American descent in the 21st cen-
tury.
She has sat on various boards through-
out her career including Black Lives Mat-
ter, the National Priorities Project, The
Brecht Forum, and the National Coalition
to Abolish the Death Penalty. Additionally,
Clemente served as the Green Party’s can-
didate for Vice President in the 2008 U.S.
election.
Clark College is located at 1933 Fort
Vancouver Way. For more information
about this event, visit clark.edu/cc/mlk.
January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 7
2017 special edition
Margaret Jacobsen is the founder of a discussion and education group called Let’s Talk, which focuses on community building for racial justice.
‘Let’s Talk’ for
Racial Progress
Activist gathers voices to
promote understanding
by Christa McIntyre ger, and sadness, and pave a path
The Portland Observer forward after the police shooting
Portland author and photog- death of Michael Brown in Fergu-
rapher Margaret Jacobsen is the son, Mo.
founder of a discussion and edu- A dozen or so meet ups later,
cation group that connects people Let’s Talk has grown to over 700
and focuses on community build- members in Portland and is ex-
ing to address racial justice issues. panding nationally. In January, 17
The group is called Let’s Talk. new chapters will open in Austin,
Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Chicago, Cincinnati, Washington
once told a crowd of students at D.C., Los Angeles, Long Beach,
Cornell University, “I am con- New York city, Phoenix, Pitts-
vinced that men hate each other burgh, Reno, Salt Lake City, San
because they fear each other. They Antonio, San Diego, San Francis-
fear each other because they don’t co, San Jose, Seattle and Calgary,
know each other, and they don’t Canada.
know each other because they Let’s Talk meetings are safe
don’t communicate with each oth- spaces where people can work
er, and they don’t communicate together on deep-level under-
with each other because they are standing. Through conversations,
separated from each other.” members learn from one another
Let’s Talk tackles the challeng- how to be supportive of people
es Rev. King spoke to head on. of color, of different genders and
It began in the summer of 2014 backgrounds, while facing un-
when Jacobsen invited people comfortable truths and disman-
from across the city to Laurel- Continued on Page 18
hurst Park to share their fears, an-
Page 8 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
A Refuge for Immigrants in Uncertain Times
for them.
Continued from Page 4
“That’s the number one thing
takes to provide safe keeping for right now in this society. Reach
immigrants who face deportation out. Given the direction we could
by ICE. go, not just Latino neighbors, but
“It’s a big commitment for the also Muslim neighbors. Immi-
person doing it,” he told Portland grant neighbors from other places
Observer. “The courage is not the may feel under siege. That could
congregation; the courage is the be the blessing in this, a very scary
person who goes into the sanctu- time, if people start reaching out
ary. You’ve got to be public about to each other, our communities be-
it, you’re not hiding somebody. come stronger, and that’s big. That
They are coming to live here, could be what we should be doing
while you work things out.” anyway. “
In the early 1980’s a group led Right now ICE will not move
by Jim Corbett, a Quaker, formed into churches or hospitals, but
a series of sanctuary churches in Pastor Knutson believes that could
Texas and the Southwest to help change under Trump’s presiden-
immigrants fleeing violent coun- cy. He observes that schools and
tries and who were at risk of de- universities haven’t had hands-on
portation by the United States experience being sanctuaries, yet.
back to uncertain futures. He says they still have to figure
The network of churches was out how that will work for them.
based upon a 19th century system Pastor Knutson believes the
called the Underground Railroad local and state governments must
which gave safety to escaped help reinforce the sanctuary val-
slaves from Southern plantations ues, “We need to keep having that
as they made their way to the free strong conversation around race,
states in the North. Jim Corbett culture, gender, inclusiveness, and
and the others who launched the equity,” he said. “If you look at
Sanctuary Movement to help Cen- Pastor Mark Knutson of northeast Portland’s Augustana Lutheran Church leads a protest in support
the people who are being deport-
tral and South American refugees of Francisco Aguirre, a Portland resident and immigrant trying to stay in the United States with his
ed they’re from Central and South
were brought to trial but exonerat- wife and two small children.
America, Syria and Haiti. These
ed of committing any crime. keep families intact on the path to World Services to promote and who want to help is to support are issues of race. This is an is-
By the early 1990’s the Sanc- citizenship. I encourage churches provide information about sanctu- sanctuary churches and to get to sue where we, as Oregonians and
tuary Movement had died out. In just to do it. The key is to cultivate ary churches. Portlanders, can say, we are not
know your immigrant neighbors
1996, shortly after Pastor Knutson lots of relationships in the com- going backward.”
His advice to Portland residents and let them know you are there
arrived at Augustana Lutheran, he munity. That’s ongoing for any
declared the church a sanctuary to justice work, right? You cultivate
provide a safe place for undocu-
mented women in abusive house-
holds. By doing so, Augustana
as a congregation lots of relation-
ships. Even if you’re not ready,
the resources will follow.”
Saluting Martin Luther King Jr.
became one of the first churches A host of churches, schools
to create a new Sanctuary Move- and universities in Portland have
ment. Since that time, it’s esti- pledged to be a sanctuary for
mated that churches have helped immigrants since the election of
at least 15 undocumented persons Donald Trump as president who
across the country by giving them ran a campaign against undocu-
sanctuary. mented immigrants from Mexico
Pastor Knutson’s wife is Af- and Muslim refugees for war torn
rican American and he knows countries in Africa and the Middle
Portland’s black community well. East.
His work has been to build a Under the law, there is a tra-
multi-national, multi-generational dition in Judaism, Christianity
congregation. The people who fill and Common Law of respecting
Augustana’s pews each weekend sanctuary and the right of habeas
reflect his dedication. There’s as corpus. But, tradition is not a le-
many 65 year olds, as millennial; gal precedent or a binding legal
a cross section of every shade of agreement. In the broadest terms,
color; LGBTQ members join in declaring sanctuary means that
prayer; a group of Native Ameri- local law enforcement, jails and
cans practice their spiritual tradi- politicians will not cooperate or
tions in a neighboring room. give resources in helping federal
The mixed-use church is also authorities arrest and deport im-
home to social justice organiza- migrants.
tions, The Community Alliance “The bigger piece to sanctu-
of Tenants, Wells Art Institute, ary is that God created the world
Familias en Accion, the Interfaith
Movement for Immigrant Justice
and intended it to be a place safe
for human beings, Knudson said.
TWO LOCATIONS
and more. “ We don’t live the world that 3311 NE MLK Jr. Blvd, Portland OR 97212
Pastor Knutson has some ad- way, so that’s why we have to cre-
vice for other places of worship ate sanctuaries in the mean time.
503-206-3911 • Mon-Sat 9am-7pm • Closed Sunday
who are considering becoming Until the world is the sanctuary
sanctuaries for undocumented im- God intended, we have to do it in 5408 NE M L King Blvd, Portland, OR 97211
migrants, “You are not by yourself. smaller spaces.” 503- 335-0271 • Mon-Sat 9am-7pm • Sunday Open 11am-5pm
You are part of this bigger move- Pastor Knutson works with
Over 5,000 Hair Care & Nail Care Items
ment of people of faith, Christian, churches all over Oregon and
Jewish and Muslim who want to the national organization Church
January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 9
2017 special edition
Page 10 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special editionJanuary 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 11
2017 special edition
Cameron Whitten, local activist, non-profit director and citizen journalist live streaming a protest in downtown Portland. photo by Michael Cary Arellano
Live-Streaming for Political Change
Activist documents Vancouver Avenue First Baptist Church
Trump protests worldwide Pastor J.W. Matt Hennessee, Senior Servant
by Christa McIntyre was common for Americans to see
The Portland Observer daily images of the Civil Rights
We carry the images of the Civ- Movement on the front page of
il Rights Movement with us. The their newspapers. Dr. King knew
historical battle to advance equal the power of the image to soften
rights for all awakened a country hearts and change minds. Those
to the struggles of African Amer- photographers helped spread Dr.
icans. In the wake of the recent King’s message: “Love is the only
presidential election in which an force capable of transforming an
attack on immigrants, Mexicans enemy into [a] friend.”
and Muslims played such a prom- Today’s historic moments ar-
inent role, local activist and exec- en’t recorded by newspaper pho-
utive director of Know Your City, tographers alone. Using smart
Cameron Whitten has taken up the phones and social media, every-
tradition as a citizen journalist by day citizens are documenting and
live-streaming an activist commu- sharing instantly across the world
nity responding to the latest politi- the events as they happen.
cal events shaping our era. Two days after Donald Trump
The way we remember Dr. was elected the next president
Martin Luther King Jr. and others
who fought for equality, including
of the United States, thousands
of Portlanders filled the streets Annual Drum Major Awards & Ecumenical Service
equal opportunity in employment, downtown to voice their concerns. “Salute to Greatness Luncheon”
housing, and education, as well as Heading an organization which
Honoring Students & Community Members who live their lives with a “Drum Major” Spirit
the right to vote and the right of seeks to preserve and share Port-
equal access to public facilities are land’s history, Whitten was among
Saturday, January 14, 2017; 12 Noon 2:00 PM
through powerful images captured them. He live-streamed the pro- Dr. & Mrs. O.B. Williams Fellowship Hall
by newspaper photographers. tests as they continued daily for a
Black and white photographs of week. Thousands of people from
Where Do We Go From Here
firemen turning their hoses full
Conversations to Solutions • Bill Deiz, Moderator
around the world tuned in.
force on the bodies of demonstra- Whitten described the protest Sunday, January 15, 2017 at 2:00 PM - 4:15 PM, Main Sanctuary
tors in Birmingham, Ala. in the participants as more diverse and Guest Panel Discussion Members
summer of 1963 still haunt and younger than he’s seen in previous Rabbi Michael Cahana, Congregation Beth Israel; Nkenge HarmonJohnson,
shape our history. The 1968 sani- years. Urban League President; Atty. Billy J. Williams, U.S. Attorney; Chief Michael
tation workers strike of Memphis, “I saw so many students out
Marshman, Portland Police Bureau; Jan Elfers, Ecumenical Ministries of
Tenn., with black men marching there who feel like that their de-
down Beale Street wearing pork- mocracy was stolen from them. Oregon Executive Director; Wajdi Said, Director of the Muslim Educational
pie hats, well pressed suits and Millennial voters voted over- Trust; Atty. Rod Underhill, Multnomah County District Attorney; Minister
ties, carrying signs which read the whelmingly against Donald Nathaniel Williams, Unify Portland; Greg McElvey, Portland’s Resistance; Kim
rallying cry “I Am A Man” still Trump and their choice was not Dixon, Enough is Enough; Presiding Multnomah County Judge Nan Waller;
stirs emotion today.
Continued on Page 19 and Judge Adrienne Nelson
From 1954 through 1968, it 3138 N Vancouver Ave., Portland, OR • www.vafbcpdx.org • 503.282,9496Page 12 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Dynamic Leader photo byZachary Senn/
The Portland Observer
for Justice Emerges
Gregory McKelvey is
the leader of Portland’s
Resistance, a group
Braving arrest group called Portland’s Resistance
to give direction and leadership to dedicated to fighting policies
and threats to local residents and members of
minority groups and other orga-
in the incoming Trump
administration that are
advance cause nizations opposed to the policies
of the pending Trump administra- detrimental to minorities,
by Zachary Senn tion. immigrants and other
The Portland Observer McKelvey first became inter-
Portland acitivist Gregory ested in enacting political change disadvantaged populations.
McKelvey is no stranger to con- at a young age. He was in high
frontations with law enforcement. school and “super inspired” when
A 23-year-old grappling with Barack Obama first ran for presi-
questions of police reform, social dent in 2008, and then the shoot-
justice and inequitable political ing death of Florida teenager
structures, he has been at the fore- Trayvon Martin by neighborhood
font of a community following the watchman George Zimmerman in
path of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 2012 galvanized his activism.
to advance a more just America. Following high-school, he de-
Thanks to his diverse back- cided to pursue a degree in Polit-
ground in law studies, campaign ical Science at Oregon State Uni-
management, and public speak- versity. Since his 2014 graduation,
ing, McKelvey is one of the most McKelvey has worked on a host
dynamic and versatile figures of local and state-level political
on Portland’s activist scene. His campaigns, most recently by serv-
recent arrest during a Nov. 21 ing as the campaign manager for
protest march, in which he was James Ofsink’s bid for state Sen-
charged for disorderly conduct, ate.
could mark a new era of non- vi- Speaking of his campaign work,
olent civil disobedience in the McKelvey states, “My style of
Northwest and in the nation as a running political campaigns was
whole. always to get people involved in
In the wake of the presiden- the issues that everybody’s talking
tial election of Donald Trump, Continued on Page 22
McKelvey founded a new activistJanuary 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 13
2017 special edition
Eastside Industrial
Honors King ‘ The ultimate measure of a man is
not where he stands in moments of
First MLK nity of this neighborhood.
comfort, but where he stands at times
’
The clean up will span from
cleanup to bolster Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
to the Willamette River, between of challenge and controversy.
community Burnside and Hawthorne. The
project is spearheaded by a collec- -- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
A decade ago, the Central East- tive of Central Eastside businesses
side industrial area was primarily called the Merchants and Makers
home to industry and wholesal- Committee of the Central Eastside
ers. Today, pioneering boutiques, Industrial Council and SOLVE. UNITED STATES SENATOR
restaurants, and retailers also in- The goals of the clean up are to
habit the neighborhood, as well
as pedestrians, bicyclists, and an
increasing number of people ex-
periencing homelessness.
build a strong, supportive commu-
nity while strengthening the envi-
ronmental health of the city’s core.
“The amazing show of support
RON WYDEN
On Monday, Jan. 16, from 10 for our first Martin Luther, Jr. King
a.m. to 12:30 p.m., more than 200 Day cleanup is a sign that we’re
peoples from Central Eastside moving in the right direction for
businesses, community volun- the area.” says Bridgid Blackburn
teers, and SOLVE will join in a from Cargo, a Central Eastside an-
neighborhood cleanup to bolster chor business and member of the
the health and nurture the commu- CEIC.
No one really
knows why they are Paid for and authorized
alive until they know by Wyden For Senate.
P.O. Box 3498
what they’d die for. Portland, OR 97208
--Martin Luther King, Jr.Page 14 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Traditions of Giving Back
Concordia exhibit explores black philanthropy
A groundbreaking touring
exhibit that explores the giving
traditions of African Ameri-
cans through history and the
contributions of black Amer-
icans in transforming society
will open this weekend for the
Martin Luther King Jr. holiday
at Concordia University.
“Giving Back: The Soul of
Philanthropy Reframed and
Exhibited, debuts Friday, Jan.
13, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at
Concordia’s George R. White
Library and Learning Center,
2800 N.E. Liberty St., and runs
through March.
Presented by Oregon’s
MRG Foundation, the exhib-
Roberta Phillip-Robbins
it explores African-American
philanthropy experiences and philanthropists.” “Giving Back: A Tribute to
giving traditions, grounded in Illustrated with photograph- Generations of African Ameri-
faith, mutuality, responsibility ic prints on metal, iPad kiosks, can Philanthropists” by author
and social justice. video, and interactive digital Valaida Fullwood and photog-
“Nurturing social change apps featuring music, poetry, rapher Charles W. Thomas Jr.
through giving is nothing new photography, narratives, and The MRG Foundation has
to black communities,” said more, it comprises over a doz- been a leader for racial equity
Roberta Phillip-Robbins, the en vignette stories and more and social justice in Oregon by
MRG Foundation’s executive than 50 black-and-white im- amplifying the voices of those
director. “This exhibit high- ages that depict facets of giv- most affected by injustice and
lights the unique and valuable ing across generations. Images promoting real change to the
legacy of African American and stories are from the book Pacific Northwest.January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 15
2017 special edition
If Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King
Jr. were alive today, what do you
think would be his first priority?
‘He would be against the ‘I’d be curious to know
racism, which is a problem his views on how much
in the United States. But, progress we’ve made or
he would be very proud not made. We clearly have
that Barack Obama became a lot left to do. We gotta do
president.’ better, we gotta be better.’
--Eric Nzayiramya, PCC student --Martha Pelster,
from the Democratic Republic of pharmaceutical worker
the Congo
‘His main thing would
be equal Civil Rights for
everyone.’
--Mia Foster, Portland
Community College student
‘There are so many things. He
would be working on voting
rights for African Americans,
because they are so targeted
for having their voting rights
taken away.’
--Diana Lease, PCC professor of
International students
Continued on Page 16Page 16 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Continued from Page 15
‘Getting communities
of color united against
systemic oppression.’
--Ramona
‘Fighting injustice. He
would keep doing what
he did for us before.’
--John Saito, retired dean
at PCC Cascade
‘He would keep
diversity in this
country. He would
make sure there’s
equal opportunity for
everybody.’
--Leonard Latin,
Gospel singerJanuary 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 17
2017 special edition
Mayor to Speak at
King Observance
Mayor Ted Wheeler will be
the featured speaker at the annual
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
observance on Sunday, Jan. 15 at
4 p.m. at Maranatha Church, 4222
N.E. 12th Ave.
The newly elected mayor is
scheduled to give the talk “Now
More than Ever” to recognize that
the “end” of the Civil Rights era
did not end the need to speak out
and witness for equality for all
people.
The “Black Lives Matter”
movement and the demonstrations
of Native American tribes against
the invasion of oil pipelines on
treaty lands and rivers have raised
awareness that people of color still
in areas for equal justice and civil
rights. Church leaders point to an
Ted Wheeler
atmosphere of outspoken racism
and religious phobia that have pre- The Maranantha Church com-
vailed recently in some quarters. memoration will include mu-
“Citizens are seeking public sic from the Maranatha Choir,
forums to express support for in- speeches from other community
creased racial awareness and tol- leaders and a call to prayer for our
erance which Dr. King espoused. nation for all people of faith.
Now is the time to say that vio- For more information, call the
lence, hate speech, and other per- Rev. Joyce Smith at 360-600-3579
secutions of people of color will or email her at jsmith4077@aol.
not stand,” organizers said. com.Page 18 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Margaret Jacobsen brings people together in safe spaces to
achieve deep-level understanding of racial issues.
Racial Progress
the narrative of black history and
Continued from Page 7
what realities young parents and
tling internal prejudices, which their kids face.
may go unnoticed. “I love my friends in Portland,
“I want us to build a campaign but I work really hard to surround
together, a campaign that is for our myself with women of color,” Ja-
city, but is also something that can cobsen said. “I think that’s really
include people from all over,” Ja- important for them (my children)
cobson told the Portland Observ- to see. They’ve (women of color)
er. “I want to encourage people have carried so much. They’ve
to commit to showing up, making always laid their bodies down.
changes and standing up for the They use their bodies to carry oth-
people around them. Let’s contin- er bodies. I’m so of proud of all
ue to be uncomfortable together. of the black women I come from.
Remember, we are a community. The ancestry, the resilience, the
We have a lot of work to do.” power, but also the softness.”
Growing up in Southern Cali- In a recent writing, Jacobsen
fornia, Jacobsen describes a bub- gives a voice to the struggles of
ble of ignorance personally expe- young parents and a diverse com-
rienced on racial issues. munity of color and gender, “As
“In random points in my life, a Black nonbinary person who is
where I had encountered racism, female bodied, I have raised two
I didn’t know it, because I didn’t brown children in an America that
have a context. My context was has always been Trump America
‘Oh, they used to lynch people to me and my Black family. This
and they were slaves. Then Martin isn’t to play down the pain that so
Luther King Jr. came and all was many are feeling right now. That
better. Malcolm X led people to be is valid, it is real. But it’s not a
violent.’ It was a weird narrative,” pain that resonates with people
Jacobsen said. of color and queer folks. We were
Today the race discussion fa- already existing in a continuous
cilitator has learned how bias and loop of pain and frustration. We
prejudice still exists on so many were already on the defense, gasp-
levels, “People don’t even know ing for air.”
that they’re being racist. They The same sense of honest di-
think they are genuinely not, be- alogue is the foundation of Let’s
cause we were all taught the same Talk.
story in school.” As our history books are re-
Starting a family as a young written to amplify the voices of
millennial, Jacobsen began to important civil rights figures such
think of how racism would im- as Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer
pact the children and what kind and Audre Lord, Jacobsen takes a
of culture and community would new place at the table. With Let’s
give future generations of African Talk, its clear more voices in the
Americans strength and a healthy struggle for equality and civil
sense of identity. rights are being heard. Jacobsen’s
Jacobsen began writing for activism is resonating with a large
national publications to explore number of people.January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 19
2017 special edition
Live-Streaming for
Political Change
Continued from Page 11 ers as he live-streamed, stopping
to talk with people and give them
honored. I’ve seen a lot of Mus- a platform to share their concerns
lim activists, which is something and broadcast their voice. Many
I’ve never seen (in Portland). The took to the streets because they
Muslim community has been mar- fear that the gains in civil and hu-
ginalized for so long; it feels like man rights over the last decades
it’s easier to be invisible, when are under threat
you’re constantly under a barrage Whitten put a human face to
of social-societal attacks. I hear so and opened the door for discus-
many Muslim activists coming out sion in a country sharply divided
and saying: “I’m so tired of being by political views.
silenced and people creating a nar- In one moment, for example,
rative of me, that’s not my own. “ Whitten met a small group giving
Whitten shared hours of live out free hugs at Pioneer Square
video on his Facebook page. He and he asked them, if they were
joined the protestors by foot and part of a group and what they
sometime zipped around to dif- wanted to accomplish that eve-
ferent areas of the city by bike to ning. The group said they were
catch different events as they hap- just there to share love and peace.
pened. Whitten asked them, “If Donald
So many people watched his Trump were here, would you give
reporting that he couldn’t keep up him a hug?’ Without a pause, they
with the comments on the video said: “Yes.”
transmissions. As with most Inter- He also interviewed Trump
net comment sections, there was supporters, trying to get an under-
a sharp divide between angry and standing about their beliefs and
supportive words. why they voted for the maverick
Whitten says his goal was to billionaire.
show events as they happened and Whitten looks at his citizen
to clear away the bias and misin- journalism as giving a bird’s
formation which has been a hot eye view on the resistance to the
button topic since the presidential Trump presidency.
campaigns began. “The most profound, moving
“I think the work I’m doing Facebook message I received af-
is super important,” he told the ter one of the protests was from a
Portland Observer. “We have to woman who said, ‘Hey Cameron,
continue citizen journalism. When I’m watching from North Caroli-
you are at this level, videotaping na. I want you to know I stopped
live, it is very difficult to lie. I watching Netflix every night, be-
hope that people continue to use cause I’m here watching your live
this type of recording as a source stream.’ The fact that I’m better
for their information.” than Netflix, that’s a huge deal, a
Whitten interacted with protest- huge honor,” Whitten said.
We must develop and
maintain the capacity to
forgive. He who is devoid of the
power to forgive is devoid of the
power to love. There is some
good in the worst of us and
some evil in the
best of us. When
we discover
this, we are less
prone to hate
our enemies.
--Martin Luther King, Jr.Page 20 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
St. Andrew Hosts MLK Service Alarmed by Trump ministration, Jackson believes that
St. Andrew Parish in northeast Continued from Page 3
Portland invites the public to join collaboration between communi-
them for their annual Martin Lu- Civil Rights crusaders were sub- ty organizations can help galva-
ther King Jr. Mass and service jected to decades ago. nize and protect disenfranchised
awards which will be celebrated “I don’t want to sugarcoat groups. In addition, keeping a
on Sunday, Jan. 15 from 9:30 a.m. things. I do think that there is a positive public perception of or-
to 11.am. lot of reason for concern,” Jack- ganizations and communities can
Awards will be presented to son says, alluding to conversa- be instrumental to their ability to
Catherine Bax and Ann Turner tions with international friends enact change, she says.
of the Virginia Garcia Memori- who believe that the United Jackson says that many in Port-
al Health Center, honoring their States is sending alarming mes- land’s protest community have
work to provide health care to sages through its recent electoral clearly communicated their goals
underserved communities. The cycle. and kept their public image posi-
awards honor leadership embody- King Jr. She said the mass surveillance tive. She cites Portland as an ex-
Peace which uses non-violent
ing the racial and economic activ- by government in today’s environ- ample of a city in which, “There
A community service award means to achieve its goals and
ism of the late Dr. Martin Luther will be presented to Veterans for advance world peace. ment to fight terrorism and other are groups that understand the im-
criminal activities has the po- portance of collaborative efforts. I
tential to suppress protest move- think that that will become more
ments. and more important.”
“Many of the activists who are She says while, “Dr. King cer-
doing the work that they think tainly had ideas about the promise
is necessary at this point in time of the future… That we would
should be prepared for possible, be judged by the content of our
serious backlash,” Jackson says. character, and not the color of our
“During Dr. King’s time, there skin,” the 2016 election cycle
certainly was a lot of surveillance showed this is not yet the case.
that was going on… Those indi- “We’re not really a society
viduals understood the ways that where people are being seen as
surveillance could occur, and the equals, and that becomes extreme-
way in which those people who ly problematic to solve,” she says.
were involved in that surveillance Jackson, who earned her Ph.D.
might infiltrate those organiza- in sociology from the University
tions.” of California, says PSU’s Black
Activists must remain vigi- Studies Department was founded
lant for the possibility of infil- out of what had formerly been the
tration within their ranks, she college’s Center for Black Studies
warns, while also lamenting that in 1969, and has grown to an inter-
a changed attitude by the public disciplinary school with appeal to
towards surveillance may rob the a diverse array of students.
public of understanding its gravi- “I think we have the same pur-
ty. pose that we had when we initially
Though communities of color started. And that is to educate and
are entering a period of uncertain- to serve the community,” Jackson
ty under the incoming Trump ad- says.January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 21
2017 special edition
World Arts Tribute to MLK
32nd annual celebration
at Highland Center
The 32nd Annual World Arts celebrations of the late civil rights
Foundation tribute to Dr. Martin leader’s work and legacy.
Luther King Jr. will take place This year’s theme will be “Keep
Monday, Jan. 16 from 11 a.m. to 6 the Dream Alive.” Dozens of
p.m. at the Highland Center, 7600 spiritual, artistic and community
N.E. Glisan St. leaders are scheduled to perform,
Packed with musical and stage including Portland jazz great Tha-
performances, speeches and more, ra Memory, the Martin Luther
Portland’ public Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School Jazz
King tribute is one of the coun- Continued on Page 25
try’s largest and most recognized
Top entertainment stars from1965 are pictured with Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. (second from left)
in this historical photo featuring singer, songwriter and actor Harry Belafonte (far left) film producer
Hilliard Elkins (second from right) and entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. (right).
Albina
Ministerial
Alliance
You are cordially invited to join
the community as we celebrate
the life work and witness of the
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Featured Speaker:
Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler
Sunday, January 15, 2017, 4:00pm
Maranatha Church
4222 NE 12th Ave
Portland, Or 97211
503 288-7241Page 22 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Dynamic Leader for Justice Emerges which a highly public persona and
lots of political savvy are valued.
“A lot of people think that I
fore the thousands of Sanders sup- day,” McKelvey tells the Portland ture Trump administration. love the limelight,” McKelvey
Continued from Page 12
porters who gathered for the rally. Observer, in an example of the McKelvey laughs off the sur- says, “But the people that work
about… Through that, I met all of “Ever since then, people have power that can come from pro- prisingly prevalent internet-based with me know that I don’t like it at
these amazing activists, and kind been having me speak every- testing. “If I didn’t have the power conspiracy theories that he and all. I don’t enjoy being the one to
of became one myself.” where,” McKelvey explains, stat- to put people in the streets, these Portland’s Resistance are funded get the death threats.”
McKelvey’s activism bloomed, ing that he has since been asked to people would never have to meet by the likes of George Soros. Despite the day-to-day chal-
he says, as a result of Bernie Sand- speak alongside the likes of Green with me.” “Being an activist is not fun. lenges that he and other local ac-
ers’ run for the Democratic presi- Party presidential nominees Dr. McKelvey’s immediate plans Most of us have jobs or school, tivists face, McKelvey says that
dential nomination and a rally the Jill Stein and Ralph Nader. McK- for Portland’s Resistance are a se- most of us are broke, and then they will continue their crusades,
candidate held at Pioneer Court- elvey was formerly an outspoken ries of targeted protests and civil we work tons of hours each day no matter what, “It’s what we feel
house Square. leader of the group Don’t Shoot actions aimed at influencing local for free,” McKelvey says, “We’re that we have to do to push for
“I had the opportunity to meet PDX, which advocates against and state-level policies. not the lazy Americans. The lazy change.”
with him and talk with him about police brutality through actions of “We’re really focusing on the Americans are the bankers and While McKelvy is optimistic
Black Lives Matter,” McKelvey mass civil disobedience, until he housing crisis here,” he says, add- politicians.” about the future of his movement,
says. left the group to form Portland’s ing that forcing regional action on While he views his volunteer he understands the very real dan-
It was also the first time he was Resistance. climate change is another priority work as necessary for making ger that he faces.
called on to give a big speech be- “I just met with the mayor to- of the group’s opposition to the fu- progress for civil rights and racial “I will die for this. I think that
justice on a local scale, McKelvey Martin Luther King was willing to
has paid personal costs due to his die for what he did, and he knew
organizing efforts. that he probably would,” McKel-
“I’ve lost relationships because vey says. “I think that it would be
of activism,” including a former a miracle for me to live my entire
fiancee, he explains. In addition, life fighting the way that I’m fight-
he says, his work opportunities are ing now, and not have something
now strictly limited to positions in happen.”
Everybody
can be great ...
because anybody
can serve. You
don’t have to
have a college degree to
serve. You don’t have to
make your subject and verb
agree to serve. You only
need a heart full of grace. A
soul generated by love.
--Martin Luther King, Jr.January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 23
2017 special edition
It Does Good Things TM
R
This page is sponsored by Oregon Lottery
Calendar January 2017
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
New Year’s Day Isaac Asimov born, Festival Of Sleep Trivia Day First Woman Gov- Bean Day First U.S. Presiden-
Betsy Ross born, 1752 1920 Day Isaac Newton born, ernor, Nellie Ross, Epiphany tial Election held,
Paul Revere born 1735 New Year’s Day J.R.R. Tolkien born, 1643 Inaugurated 1925 Sherlock Holmes 1789
1892 Jakob Grimm born, George W Carver born, 1854 Old Rock Day
Observed
1785 Recognition Day
National Bird Day
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Secret Pal Day First iPhone intro- Remy Charlip born, Dreams Come True Day Work Harder Day Poetry Break Day National Dress Up
Elvis Presley born, duced in 2007 1929 Milk Day Author Jack London Michael Bond born, Your Pet Day
1935 National Apricot Day First Meeting of Unit- Amelia Earhart flew born, 1876 1926 The Revolutionary
National Static Elec- ed Nations, 1946 Pacific Ocean, War ended (1784)
tricity Day 1935
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
First Super Bowl Dr. Martin Luther Muhammad Ali Raymond Briggs Artist Paul Cezanne Inauguration Day National Hugging Day
Played in 1967 King, Jr. Day (Cassius Clay) born, 1934 born, 1839 (Every 4 years: First flight of the Su-
Hat Day; first top hat Prohibition, 1920 born, 1942 Beginning of the Popcorn Day 2013, 2017, 2021) personic Concorde
was worn (1797) Benjamin Franklin Lewis & Clark Cheese Day (1976)
born, 1706 Bicentennial
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Brian Wildsmith Measure Your Feet Gold Discovered in Opposite Day Australia Day (first Lewis Carroll birth- Chinese New Year -
born, 1930 Day California At Sut- First Winter Olym- settled, 1788) day Year of the Rooster
National Blonde National Handwrit- ter’s Mill in 1848 pics held, 1924 National Geograph- Jackson Pollock
Brownie Day ing Day by John Marshall ic Society Founded born, 1912 (Artist)
National Pie Day (1888) National Kazoo Day
29 30 31
Baseball Hall of Franklin D. Roos- Backwards Day
Fame established evelt born, 1882 Jackie Robinson
(1936) (23rd President) born, 1919 (Base-
National Puzzle Day ball Great)Page 24 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Drum Major Service tist Church has a rich history of
Continued from Page 3
its active role in the Civil Rights
Portland, Lewis and Clark Law Movement, including hosting his-
student Gregory McElvey from toric leaders like Dr. King, Ralph
Portland’s Resistance, Kim Dix- Wilkins and Congressman John
on from Enough is Enough, and Lewis. Pastor Hennessee was a
Multnomah County judges Nan G. godson to the late Coretta Scott
Waller and Adrienne Nelson. King. The term “drum major”
This year’s Drum Major re- is found in a sermon Dr. King
cipients are Wajdi Said and the delivered on Feb. 4, 1968 at the
Muslim Educational Trust, JoAnn Ebenezer Baptist Church in At-
Hardesty and the NAACP Port- lanta, Ga: “Yes, if you want to
land Branch 1120, Julianne John- say that I was a drum major, say
son-Weiss and Ecumenical Min- that I was a drum major for jus-
istries of Oregon, Lou Radja and tice. Say that I was a drum ma-
EduCongo. jor for peace. Yes, I was a drum
Vancouver Avenue First Bap- major for righteousness. And all
of the other shallow things will
not matter. Yes, I won’t have
Harris Photography
any money to leave behind. I
503-730-1156 won’t have the fine and luxuri-
ous things of life to leave behind.
Family Portraits $65
But, I just want to leave a com-
Senior High Photos $65 mitted life behind. “
Vancouver Avenue First Bap-
4545 N.E. MLK 97211
tist’s MLK celebrations are free
and open to the public. A seat
reservation, however, is recom-
mended by calling the church at
503-282-9496.
Advertise with diversity photo by Zachary Senn/The Portland Observer
Raymond Burell brings the history of Rev Martin Luther King Jr. visit to Portland’s Vancouver
in Avenue First Baptist Church to life as church historian. Burrell was recently responsible for
The Portland Observer having the church listed in the National Register of Historic places.
antonioharris@mac.com
Call 503-288-0033 or email
ads@portlandobserver.com Martin Luther King Visited Here
Church steeped A Portland sanctuary with ical centers of Portland’s black
Today’s Little in Civil Rights
great social, educational, and
historical significance to Port-
land’s black community was
community, and has hosted
civil rights icons such as Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr. and
Scholars Childcare history
byZachary Senn
honored this past year with na-
tional recognition. Vancouver
Avenue First Baptist Church
Ralph Wilkins throughout its
rich history. Raymond Burell,
The Portland Observer
Continued on Page 26
is known as one of the histor-
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Http://www.todayslittlescholars.comJanuary 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 25
2017 special edition
World Arts
Tribute to MLK
Mary Overstreet and Geoffrey
Continued from Page 21
Brooks.
Band, rapper-poet-social justice World Arts Foundation, Inc.
advocate Mic Crenshaw, and the was established in 1978 in Port-
nationally acclaimed Jefferson land to promote and preserve Afri-
Dancers. can-American contributions to the
World Arts will present life- American culture, and to support
time awards to people from the community education through the
community who have advanced interface of arts and education in
the cause of civil rights, including interactive, visual and performing
Carole Smith, Armando Gonza- media that showcases local and re-
les, Ron Silver, Rolia Manyongai, gional talent.
Ray and Ada Tellis, Pearl Thom- The celebration honors and
as, Raymond Burrell and Eldon celebrates with live performances
T. Jones. The celebration will also of African American song, spo-
recognize those who have passed ken word, dance and music in the
with posthumous awards: Anne spirit of keeping Dr. King’s dream
Granville, Karen Bowles, Pastor alive.
That old law about ‘an eye
for an eye’ leaves everybody
blind. The time is
always right to do
the right thing.
--Martin Luther King, Jr.
They Didn’t Waste Time Asking “How?”
They Simply Did It!
Join the Elks Lodge, Now!
The Elks Lodge New Membership Drive
When: Thursday January 26th, 2017
Where: The Elks Lodge at 6 N.
Tillamook
Time: 6pm to 8pm
Food is provided!
We Hope to See YOU There!Page 26 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017
2017 special edition
Martin Luther King Visited Here
Continued from Page 24 Williams, the church’s popula- more than 130 pages, and de-
tion went from a handful of pa- tailed the church’s rich history.
the church’s historian, was re- rishioners to more than 1,200 The church’s new national
sponsible for having the church in 1955. recognition will help it survive
listed in the National Register “These were very active par- in a rapidly gentrifying stretch
of Historic Places. ticipants, so it became quite the of North Portland.
“It’s a very storied site,” ex- place,” Burell explains. “It just puts it in a different
plains Burell, whose passion Over the years, the church place in terms of recognition
for preserving the church’s has not only met the spiritual and preservation… By having
narrative stems from his own needs of its community, but it it deemed a national landmark,
upbringing within its active has served as one of the city’s it’s much more important to the
community, and its importance social and cultural centers, community.” Burell says.
to the black community of drawing a large number of Burell, whose family has at-
Portland. historical figures through its tended Vancouver Avenue First
Burell, who has dedicated doors. Baptist for four generations,
an untold amount of time as a “Anytime anyone of signifi- traces his interest in history to
church volunteer and local ex- cance on a national level visit- his own familial genealogy.
pert on black history, says that ed Portland, they spoke here,” “It really gave me perspec-
the impetus behind the historic Burrell says. In addition, he tive for who I am as a being,”
designation was “the preserva- says Vancouver Avenue First he explains. Similarly, he says,
tion of a culture.” Baptist Church played a tre- his work documenting the his-
Portland’s black community mendous role following Dr. tory of the church, “Celebrates
has a very layered and intricate Martin Luther King Jr.’s assas- who we are as a culture. It
history, he told the Portland sination in 1968, by holding a helps people to say, ‘our cul-
Observer, “There’s so little city-wide memorial service. ture matters.”
documentation… That’s really Burell says that reaction to
what thrust me to do it,” Burrell’s efforts to place the the historical listing has been
The church was founded in church on the National Register overwhelmingly positive.
1944 by the Rev. James Brown of Historic Places took nearly People were just beaming
during the time of World War II seven months. “Even though with pride,” says Burrell, who
when Portland’s black commu- I knew the history, it was just is being honored by the World
nity grew. Under the steward- putting it into context,” he ex- Arts Foundation for his efforts
ship of the Rev. Oliver Booker plains. The final document was to list the building.You can also read
