Who We Are

We research, recognize, and commemorate the history and heritage of African Americans in Oregon.

Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. Since 1993, our organization has illuminated the seldom-told history of people of African descent in Oregon. We are inspired by the tenacity of Black Oregonians who have faced discrimination and hardship to make a life for themselves here over the past 400 years. We honor their sacrifices by remembering their stories and by sharing them with the public.

What We Do

Our vision is to become the preeminent resource for the study of Oregon’s African American history and culture. We work to achieve this vision through our engaging exhibitions, public programs, original publications, and historical research. Additionally, we partner with local organizations to plan, interpret, and advocate for the preservation and commemoration of sites with African American historical significance statewide.

Oregon Black Pioneers is a 501c3 nonprofit organization.

Our Team

OBP Board of Directors

Kimberly Moreland, President
Cleo Davis, Vice President
Philip Berlin, Treasurer
Elise Gautier, Secretary
Lillian Green
Troy Tate
Joanne Stewart
Dr. Fay Gyapong-Porter
LC Miller

Emeritus Board

Willie Richardson (In Memoriam)
Gwen Carr
Darrell Millner
Mary Oberst
Martha Rutherford

OBP Staff
Zachary Stocks, Executive Director
Belinda Miller, Communications Manager
Mariah Rocker, Public Programs and Exhibits Manager

Oregon Black Pioneers is currently recruiting new Board members. If you are interested in joining our volunteer Board, please complete and submit our Board Member Application.