Black History is American History & Honoring Our Activists
"African Americans have resisted historic and ongoing oppression, in all forms, especially the racial terrorism of lynching, racial pogroms, and police killings since our arrival upon these shores. These efforts have been to advocate for a dignified self-determined life in a just democratic society in the United States and beyond the United States political jurisdiction." (Association for the study of African American Life and History website, 2023).
Each year the Association for the study of African American Life and History (ASALH) develops a theme for black history month. This year the theme is "Black Resistance". Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney, ASALH president, stated that "resistance helps us understand the power that Black people have in terms of their historical realities, which counters the concept of victimhood that many say drives Black History education" (Neuman, S., 2023). This theme resonates with me. When life gets hard, I remind myself of those who came before me, their historical realities and how they overcame using resistance. They resisted the notion that change wasn't possible. They resisted the concept of their existence not being of value and contributed to our society and our history. They resisted the urge to give up and so I get to exist.
This is a month for which some look forward to, others do not think it's enough, and a few ignore. No matter what Black History Month is to you, any human can grow from intentional review of the month. We each will have to resist and persist at some point in our life. This month, take a moment to review our Black (American) history. You may get a great lesson on how you too can resist against all odds. Happy Black (American) History Month!
CALLING ALL ACTIVISTS!
Small grants for folks doing big things
We know that there are so many incredible women and girls who work hard and pour their hearts into making a difference in their communities and the world. The work can be exhausting and we seldom take the time to honor and celebrate the incredible achievements of the women and girls making a difference every day in their communities. We think that should change.
In recognition of the unsung heroes in our community we would like to provide small monetary grants for individuals that are activists located in and providing support within the state of Oregon for Justice, Liberation and Collectivity of women. We see you!
If you know someone who is on the frontlines of Gender Justice work in Oregon, please share this opportunity with them. The application is open now until March 13th.
We are starting 2023 with transformative energy to advance gender justice. Our Portland Grant, our Dream Big Multi-Year Grant, and now our Activist Scholarship are all aimed at making a real impact for the lives of women and girls in our state. Thank you for being part of our movement!
Oregon Kids' Credit- Share your Story!
Our friends at the Oregon Center for Public Policy have been working with legislators to enact the Oregon Kids’ tax credit which would be the first of its kind in the nation after the federal program ended last year.
All Oregon children deserve to grow up economically secure and enjoy a real opportunity to thrive. That's why this legislative session we are fighting to establish the Oregon Kids' Credit.
The Oregon Kids' Credit would deliver cash directly to families struggling to afford rent, food, and other basic needs. As the successful federal Child Tax Credit demonstrates, giving families money through the tax code is an effective way to address economic insecurity.
Families struggling to make ends meet would receive up to $1,200 per child every year to help Oregon parents struggling with the rising cost of raising kids.
Share your story. Stories have the power to change hearts and minds, and are a powerful tool in advocating for good public policy. Help us create an Oregon that supports families and helps children thrive. Share your story here: bit.ly/OKCStory