About Us
Who We Are
Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. For more than 30 years, we’ve illuminated the seldom-told stories of people of African descent in Oregon through our engaging exhibits, public programs, publications, and historical research. Additionally, we partner with local organizations to identify, interpret, and preserve sites with African American historical significance.
Our Mission is to research, recognize, and commemorate the history and heritage of African Americans in Oregon.
Our Story
Our organization was founded in Salem, Oregon in 1993 by Carol Davis, David Burgess, and Jackie Winters. After some initial success, the organization went dormant in 1996. In 2004, former Board member Willie Richardson revived the organization and brought a renewed focus on research, education, and community building. Under Willie’s leadership from 2004-2021, Oregon Black Pioneers became a trusted voice for the study of Oregon’s Black history.
Team
OBP Staff
Zachary Stocks
Belinda Miller
Mariah Rocker
OBP Board of Directors
Kimberly Moreland
Cleo Davis
Philip Berlin
Elise Gautier
Lillian Green
Troy Tate
Joanne Stewart
LC Miller
Dr. Fay Gyapong-Porter
Sean-Hobbs Waters
Stephen Green
Terra Wheeler
Emeritus Board
Gwen Carr
Darrell Millner
Mary Oberst
Martha Rutherford
Willie Richardson
Hire Oregon Black Pioneers
Working on a Black history project or event? We can help! Visit the Hire Our Team page for details.
