This is the annual letter where I tell you about how Oregon Black Pioneers has done this year and ask for your gift in support of our work. But right now, many of our supporters are in no position to make donations.
Things are difficult for people everywhere. As I’m writing this, families are struggling to afford groceries and basic necessities. The last thing you need right now is to worry about whether or not our organization is going to survive.
And so I have good news for you: Oregon Black Pioneers is gonna be alright.
Don’t get me wrong, we need your support! Donations received in 2025 are well below what we had hoped for. But regardless of what our financial resources are, we will always be here to share the stories of Oregon’s Black history. That’s just who we are. It’s what we do.
In spite of tenuous federal funding and philanthropic support, and attacks on Black history and culture nationwide, 2025 still managed to be our greatest year yet. This year, we…
• added two new staff members, making us a team of five.
• reached a record 5000 people at in-person events in 39 Oregon cities.
• developed collaborative events, educational offerings, and an expanded tour schedule.
• hosted quarterly gatherings on Letitia Carson’s land, and led a research project around other Black homesteaders.
• brought hundreds of people together for a festival honoring York.
How did we manage to do it? By striving to live up to YOUR expectations of us. Whether you donated, came to an event, or even just liked one of our posts on Facebook or Instagram, you entrusted us with giving voice to our ancestors. That’s a sacred responsibility which we honor; no matter what is happening around us, we’ll be here for our community. Can’t stop, won’t stop.
It’s love, not money, that powers Oregon Black Pioneers, but if you have the ability to make a donation today, it would greatly help our small nonprofit. Please consider making a gift before December 31st on behalf of your household, or for those who can’t give this year. Thank you so much for making our work possible!
In solidarity,
Zachary Stocks
Executive Director