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 versity is not a threat; it is, in fact Making it clear The our greatest strength,” Merkley that the fight for Week said. equality will not in PCC Chair Quits Post retreat after the Review The chair of Portland Communi- most bitter and ty College board has resigned to divisive national ple with disabilities because of protest a recent decision to make election in mem- $338 in back due rent. the college a sanctuary campus. ory, Kate Brown Bracing for More Snow Gene Pitts said his concern was was sworn in to her first full term 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 from hypothermia in Portland, the Firefighters respond when a fire erupts at the Hotel Alder, displac- would block the creation of any boy in the South won Best Mo- third this month blamed on living ing low-income housing residents, downtown. national immigration-related reg- tion Picture at the Golden Globe outside in freezing temperatures. istry program that classifies people Awards Sunday. Viola Davis won Karen Batts, 52, was found dead based upon their religion, race, age, Best Supporting Actress for her at a downtown parking garage on Fire Victims Given Shelter gender, ethnicity, national origin or portrayal of Rose in Denzel Wash- Saturday. Records show she was Central City Concern, the hous- teers also helped with replacing citizenship. “Contrary to the Pres- ington’s directorial adaptation of evicted last October from afford- ing provider which operates the eye glasses, prescriptions, serving ident-elect’s beliefs, America’s di- August Wilson’s “Fences.” able housing for seniors and peo- low-income Hotel Alder apart- warm meals and providing beds 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)

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The Portland Observer--Oregon’s Oldest Executive Director: Rakeem Washington Multicultural Publication--is a member of the National Newspaper Association--Founded in 1885, and The National Advertising Representative Amalgamated Advertising Manager: Leonard Latin Publishers, Inc, New York, NY, and The West Coast Black Publishers Association Office Manager/Classifieds:Lucinda Baldwin CALL 503-288-0033 FAX 503-288-0015 Creative Director: Paul Neufeldt [email protected] • [email protected] Reporter/Web Editor: Christa McIntyre [email protected] Public Relations: Mark Washington Jr. Postmaster: Send address changes to Portland Observer , Reporter: Zachary Senn PO Box 3137 , Portland, OR 97208 PO QR code January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 3 2017 special edition This page INSIDE Sponsored by: The in Week Review page 2 Local News Martin Luther King Jr. Alarmed by Trump Professor sees Calendar page 23 parallels to era of Martin Luther King Jr. Obituary page 28-29 by Zachary Senn The Portland Observer As the nation transitions from its first black Opinion pages 30-31 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 page 33 “We do see students on college campuses again also prepare to face the same repercussions that Metro taking the lead, as they did in the 1960s… Pushing for answers,” she says. However, one big difference Continued on Page 20 Drum Major Ecumenical Service panel discussion, “Where do we Panel go from here,” led by moderator Bill Deiz. discussion to It has a been a tradition at the Drum Major celebration for a key- highlight MLK note speaker to address the con- gregation, but when Pastor Hen- celebration 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 gin Saturday, Jan. 14 with a noon church’s main sanctuary, 3138 N. Mike Marshman, Executive Di- 32-38 luncheon in the church fellowship Vancouver Ave. rector of Ecumenical Ministries Arts hall to honor students and com- Pastor J.W. Matt Hennessee of Oregon Jan Elfers, Director ENTERTAINMENT munity members who live their will lead the service. Pastor E.D. 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 umenical Service on Sunday, Jan. Ted Wheeler will share a few brief page 38 Continued on Page 24 Classifieds 15, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the words. A special focus will be a Page 4 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition A Refuge for Immigrants in Uncertain Times Pastor Knutson was on the Pastor leads coast, presiding over a sea burial, when the call came in that Immi- movement for gration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was attempting to deport social justice Aguirre. Without hesitation, he told his staff to take Aguirre in. by Christa McIntyre Aguirre spent the first night sleep- The Portland Observer 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 Continued on Page 8 Pastor Mark Knutson vide him protection. U.S. or who has stayed beyond the to march, confront and advocate.” 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. know your immigrant neighbors Portlanders, can say, we are not 1996, shortly after Pastor Knutson lots of relationships in the com- His advice to Portland residents and let them know you are there going backward.” 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- as a congregation lots of relation- mented women in abusive house- ships. Even if you’re not ready, Saluting Martin Luther King Jr. holds. By doing so, Augustana the resources will follow.” 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 and intended it to be a place safe Movement for Immigrant Justice 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 ment of people of faith, Christian, churches all over Oregon and Jewish and Muslim who want to the national organization Church Over 5,000 Hair Care & Nail Care Items January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 9 2017 special edition Page 10 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition January 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 of the United States, thousands who fought for equality, including 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 Where Do We Go From Here Black and white photographs of week. Thousands of people from Conversations to Solutions • Bill Deiz, Moderator firemen turning their hoses full 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. and Judge Adrienne Nelson Continued on Page 19 From 1954 through 1968, it 3138 N Vancouver Ave., Portland, OR • www.vafbcpdx.org • 503.282,9496 Page 12 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition

photo by Zachary Senn/ Dynamic Leader The Portland Observer Gregory McKelvey is for Justice Emerges the leader of Portland’s Resistance, a group group called Portland’s Resistance Braving arrest to give direction and leadership to dedicated to fighting policies local residents and members of in the incoming Trump and threats to minority groups and other orga- nizations opposed to the policies administration that are advance cause 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 activist January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 13 2017 special edition Eastside Industrial The ultimate measure of a man is Honors King ‘not where he stands in moments of nity of this neighborhood. First MLK The clean up will span from comfort, but where he stands at times 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 build a strong, supportive commu- as pedestrians, bicyclists, and an nity while strengthening the envi- increasing number of people ex- ronmental health of the city’s core. RON WYDEN periencing homelessness. “The amazing show of support 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 by Wyden For Senate. alive until they know 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 16 Page 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 singer January 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- tive. She cites Portland as an ex- awards honor leadership embody- King Jr. Peace which uses non-violent She said the mass surveillance ample of a city in which, “There ing the racial and economic activ- A community service award means to achieve its goals and by government in today’s environ- are groups that understand the im- ism of the late Dr. Martin Luther will be presented to Veterans for advance world peace. ment to fight terrorism and other 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 503 288-7241 Page 22 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition

which a highly public persona and Dynamic Leader for Justice Emerges 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 Observed 1892 Jakob Grimm born, George W Carver born, 1854 Old Rock Day 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- Family Portraits $65 ous things of life to leave behind. But, I just want to leave a com- Senior High Photos $65 mitted life behind. “ 4545 N.E. MLK 97211 Vancouver Avenue First Bap- 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. Call 503-288-0033 or email [email protected] [email protected] Martin Luther King Visited Here A Portland sanctuary with ical centers of Portland’s black Church steeped great social, educational, and community, and has hosted Today’s Little historical significance to Port- civil rights icons such as Dr. in Civil Rights land’s black community was Martin Luther King Jr. and history honored this past year with na- Ralph Wilkins throughout its Scholars Childcare tional recognition. Vancouver rich history. Raymond Burell, by Zachary Senn Avenue First Baptist Church Continued on Page 26 The Portland Observer is known as one of the histor-

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--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 Williams, the church’s popula- more than 130 pages, and de- Continued from Page 24 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. January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 27 2017 special edition The Portland Observer Thank you to all the supporters of our Martin Luther King Jr. Special Edition

AAHC Metro PDC Access Ad Mid-K Port. Police Bureau Advantis Credit Union Multnomah University Port of Portland Alberta St Market Music Millennium PPS Albina Ministerial NW Carpenters Providence Alliance NW Natural Gas Ron Wyden Brooks Staffing NXNE SEI City of Portland OES Sweet Street Food Cart Clark College OHSU Todays Little Scholars Dwell Reality Oregon Historical Society University of oregon Elks Lodge Oregon Lottery Vancouver Ave. First at 6 N. Tillamook Oregon State University Baptist Church Harris Photography Pacific Power VOA Homefoward PCC Warner Pacific IBEW PCC Cappeli Miles William Gorden Jr Kaiser Permanente PCRI Oregon Zoo Page 28 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition Obituary In Loving Memory Denita Young Denita Young was born Sept. 17, 1964 and died Jan. 4. 2017. Services are scheduled on Saturday, Jan. 14 at 10:30 a.m. at Phila- delphia Community Mis- sionary Baptist Church, 238 N.E. Mason St. She will be missed by her family and friends.

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The Song “My Prayer”, Written and Sung by Gloria Cash Can be downloaded at CDBaby.com CD can be purchased at: JP’s Custom Picture Framing & Gallery 418 NE Killingsworth St., Portland, Oregon 97211 503 288-2118 January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 29 2017 special edition Obituary

In Loving Memory Carl Edward Gibson Sr Carl Edward Gibson was born April 1, 1960 and died on Jan. 5, 2017. Services will be held at Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, 4009 N. Missouri Ave., on Wednesday, Jan. 18 at 12 p.m. Viewing will occur one day prior on Jan. 17 at 1 p.m. at Omega Funeral Home, 233 N.E. 122nd Ave. A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus. --Martin Luther King, Jr. Page 30 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition

Opinion articles do not necessarily represent the views of the Portland Observer. We welcome reader essays, photos and Opinion story ideas. Submit to [email protected]. Awash in Racially-Motivated Confrontations comments by Mr. Paladino have of failed New York gubernatorial stereotypes.” Carl Palidino wants jection of Paladino’s hateful state- Standing out garnered both local, national, candidate Carl Paladino stands out to see Michelle Obama “return to ments, and its recognition that a and international attention that among the others. Warning: his being a male and let loose in the man who holds such views cannot among the reflects negatively on the -Buffa words are difficult to read. outback of Zimbabwe where she be entrusted with the education lo Board of Education, the City When the Buffalo weekly lives comfortably in a cave with of children. If Paladino does not others of Buffalo and its leadership and newspaper Artvoice asked locals Maxie, the gorilla.” heed the demands of the Board “Mr. Paladi- its citizens, the State of New York, their hopes for 2017, many gave In response to the horrified and resign, we expect NYS Edu- no is an elected and every decent human being positive, community-minded an- national outcry over his repre- cation Commissioner MaryEllen official charged in America and abroad who has swers: “A return to shopping in hensible remarks, Paladino first Elia to pursue his removal. with the respon- been shocked and offended by his communities and brick-and-mor- rebuffed inquiring journalists with The president and chief execu- sibility to repre- words.” -- Resolution by the Buf- tar stores,” “the Bills get in the an obscenity, then penned a defi- tive of our Urban League affiliate in sent children and falo School Board demanding playoffs,” or “more kindness.” ant non-apology, defending his Buffalo, Brenda W. McDuffie, has families in a dis- Carl Paladino’s resignation Carl Paladino hopes President words as “deprecating humor.” been outspoken on this issue, and trict comprised of over 70 percent by Marc H. Morial “Obama catches mad cow dis- Paladino is certainly no strang- we urge the entire Urban League black, brown, Asian, immigrant The national wave of racist, ease after being caught having er to this brand of so-called “hu- community to unite in opposition and other minority students and vicious invective unleashed by relations with a Hereford. He dies mor.” During his failed 2010 gu- to Paladino’s hatefulness by signing families; And, Mr. Paladino took the 2016 Presidential campaign before his trial and is buried in a bernatorial run, a local news site the petition urging his removal. an oath to ensure that students are is well-documented. Hundreds of cow pasture next to Valerie Jarret, exposed racist and pornographic In fairness, when ArtVoice afforded an environment which hate crimes have been reported to who died weeks prior, after being emails Paladino had shared with asked Investigative Post editor is free from fear and respects di- watchdog groups like the South- convicted of sedition and treason, associates. While he lost the elec- Jim Heaney what he’s like to see versity within the school district ern Poverty Law Center. Social when a Jihady cell mate mistook tion in a landslide, garnering only go away in 2017, Heaney respond- and the community and is subject media is awash in cell-phone vid- her for being a nice person and de- a third of the vote, he managed to ed, “Carl Paladino.” We couldn’t to all district policies; …. These eo of racially-motivated confron- capitated her.” be elected to the Buffalo School agree more. unambiguously racist, morally tations invoking the name of the What do Buffalonians want Board in 2013. Marc H. Morial is president repugnant, flagrantly disrespect- President-elect. to see go away in 2017? “Hate.” The Buffalo School Board is and chief executive officer of the ful, inflammatory and inexcusable But the recent hateful tirade “Discrimination.” “Preconceived to be commended for its swift re- National Urban League. Precisely the Wrong Man to Lead Justice Department ing Rights Act in 2006, but called seeking to dismantle them. When Civil Rights Movement, then-At- legislation four times from 2000 Opposing the bill “a piece of intrusive leg- Shelby County v. Holder gutted torney General Nicholas Katzen- to 2009. islation” just months earlier. Ses- the protections of the VRA, Sen. bach’s commitment to democracy Notwithstanding, he has also the Sessions sions has con- Sessions cheered. For decades, he allowed him to help write the Vot- repeatedly voted against the Vio- sistently voted has pursued the rare and mystical ing Rights Act. Today, our nation lence Against Women Act that ex- nomination in favor of strict unicorn of voter fraud, while turn- stands on the verge of selecting panded protection for victims of by Cornell Williams Brooks voter ID laws ing a blind eye to the ever-grow- an AG who has never shown the domestic violence and repeatedly America yet stands at the that place extra ing issue of voter suppression. slightest commitment to enforcing stood on the wrong side of immi- beginning of presidential ad- burdens on the While Sen. Sessions’ histori- the protections Katzenbach and gration and LGBT issues. ministration but also in the poor and resi- cal record on civil rights remains others wrote into law. During his failed 1986 feder- middle of a Twitter age civil dents of color, one of dismay, it is his unrepen- How can our communities who al judgeship hearing, four DOJ rights movement based on old and drive vot- tant stance against the vote that have born the both historical and attorneys and colleagues of Sen. divisions. Sen. Jefferson Be- er suppression remains our issue. The threat of current brunt of the attacks on the Sessions testified that he made auregard Sessions is among the several racist statements. J. Gerald worst possible nominees to serve Rather than enforcing voting rights protections, Sen. Hebert testified that Sessions had as Attorney General amidst some referred to the NAACP and the of the worst times for civil rights Sessions has instead made a career of seeking to dismantle American Civil Liberties Union as in recent memory. “un-American” and “Communist Following a divisive presiden- them. When Shelby County v. Holder gutted the protections inspired” because they “forced tial campaign, hate crimes ris- civil rights down the throats of ing, police videos sickening the of the VRA, Sen. Sessions cheered. For decades, he has people.” stomach while quickening the Additional accusations of racist conscience, protesters march- pursued the rare and mystical unicorn of voter fraud, behavior were attributed to Sen. ing in the streets and politicians while turning a blind eye to the ever-growing issue of voter Sessions by Thomas Figures, an mouthing the myth of voter fraud African American Assistant U.S. while denying the reality of voter suppression. Attorney, who testified that Ses- suppression, Sen. Sessions is pre- sions said he thought the Ku Klux cisely the wrong man to lead the across the country. When the Su- voter suppression is not a histor- right to vote, sit idly by while an Klan was “OK until I found out Justice Department. The NAACP, preme Court struck down federal ical but current challenge. At least enemy to the vote is now given they smoked pot.” Sessions lat- as the nation’s oldest and largest protections in 2012 that prevent- 10 times in the past 10 months, the responsibility of enforcing this er said that the comment was not civil rights organization, opposes ed thousands of discriminatory the NAACP defended voting right? The simple answer is that serious, but did apologize for it. the nomination of Sen. Sessions to state laws from taking effect since rights against coordinated cam- we can’t. Mr. Figures also testified that on become U.S. Attorney General for 1965, Sessions declared it was “a paigns by legislators targeting Af- Since 1997, Sen. Sessions has one occasion, Sen. Sessions railed the following reasons: a record on good thing for the South.” As a rican-American voters in Texas, received an F every year on the against civil rights cases, threw a voting rights that is unreliable at prosecutor in 1985, Sessions ma- North Carolina, Wisconsin, and NAACP’s federal legislative civ- file on the table and called him the best and hostile at worse; a failing liciously prosecuted a former aide many other states. il rights report cards. He’s voted derogatory racist term “boy,” and record on other civil rights; a re- to Martin Luther King for helping While the NAACP could gain against our policy positions nearly later advised him to watch what he cord of racially offensive remarks senior citizens file absentee bal- the assistance of the Justice De- 90 percent of the time. Sen. Ses- said to white people. and behavior; and dismal record lots in Alabama. partment in fighting back against sions has repeatedly supported In a time of expanding pro- on criminal justice reform issues. Rather than enforcing voting voter suppression, a Sessions-led lawsuits and attempts to overturn tests against the scourge of police Sen. Sessions supported the rights protections, Sen. Sessions DOJ would likely lead to the exact desegregation while shamelessly Continued on Page 39 re-authorization of the 1965 Vot- has instead made a career of opposite. During the height of the voting against federal Hate Crime January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 31 2017 special edition Opinion articles do not necessarily represent the views of the New Prices Portland Observer. We welcome reader essays, photos and Effective story ideas. Submit to [email protected]. Opinion May 1, 2014 Calling Working People of All Colors Martin impossible.” Though similarly edly neglecting the white working alization, and de-unionization Our mutual exploited by white elites, econom- class. plaguing many Rust Belt whites. ically disenfranchised whites and Bringing those white voters Trends in wealth have mirrored Cleaning economic blacks “never came to see their into the fold would make the those in income. Where the Great interests common interest.” Democratic Party a formidable Recession led to a 16 percent loss More than eight decades force, but not if it means margin- in wealth for the average white Service by Ebony later, we’re still waiting. alizing the concerns of people of family, it led to a 53 percent loss Slaughter- In the aftermath of the color. That would be an unmitigat- for the average black family. As of Carpet & Upholstery Johnson 2016 presidential election, ed disaster. 2014, around of quarter of black Cleaning A little over the resounding explana- The best way for progressives and Latino Americans lived in 80 years ago, tion for Hillary Clinton’s to realign themselves with the poverty, compared to 10 percent Residential & NAACP founder loss to Donald Trump has white working class isn’t to re- of whites. Commercial Services W.E.B. Du Bois been that Democrats failed verse this progress. It’s to argue The racism that’s worsened Minimum Service CHG. wrote “Black to respond to the economic forcefully that the economic con- conditions for many Americans of $45.00 Reconstruction in America,” needs of the white working class. cerns of the white working class color needs to be addressed head- A small distance/travel a groundbreaking essay that As a result, this story goes, the and people of color are more alike on. But many of the same populist charge may be applied looked at the racial politics of white working class turned to- than different. economic policies that would lift the post-Civil War years. wards Donald Trump and contrib- For instance, working white them up would also help strug- CARPET CLEANING The major failure of those uted significantly to his victory. people understandably complain gling whites. years, Du Bois insisted, was that For some, then, the diagnosis of lower wages and lost jobs. Yet Instead of erasing race from the 2 Cleaning Areas or poor whites and poor blacks failed for the party’s malaise is simple: these economic challenges are equation, working people and their more $30.00 Each Area to form an alliance around their Bring the white working class part and parcel to those confront- progressive advocates should take Pre-Spray Traffic Areas mutual economic interests and back into the fold. ing communities of color. their cues from Du Bois and get (Includes: 1 small Hallway) challenges. Instead, white elites “If you are going to mention The unemployment rate for to work building what he called a doubled down on their efforts to groups in America, you had better black Americans is twice that unified “proletariat” of all colors. 1 Cleaning Area (only) divide poor people of different mention all of them. If you don’t, for the white community across At this rate, we don’t have an- $40.00 races. those left out will notice and feel education levels. Similarly, other 80 years. Includes Pre-Spray Traffic Area “So long as the Southern white excluded,” Columbia University the income gap between black Ebony Slaughter-Johnson is a (Hallway Extra) laborers could be induced to pre- professor Mark Lilla wrote. He and white households grew to research assistant with the Crim- fer poverty to equality with the sharply criticized Hillary Clin- $25,000 as of 2014, a statistic inalization of Poverty project at Stairs (12-16 stairs - With Negro,” Dubois lamented, “a la- ton for “calling out explicitly to” due in no small part to the same the Institute for Policy Studies. Other Services): $25.00 bor movement in the South [was] blacks and Latinos while suppos- wage stagnation, deindustri- Distributed by OtherWords.org. Area/Oriental Rugs: $25.00 Minimum Area/Oriental Rugs (Wool): The Greater Truth of One Planet, One Humanity $40.00 Minimum to power may be the harbinger of that Trump himself expects. Per- Thus: “We need to stand in Bending the Arc profound, positive change. haps he’s just the trigger. solidarity with Muslim people Heavily Soiled Area: towards justice “I do not pretend to understand Consider, for instance, the who are being targeted by Donald Additional $10.00 each area the moral universe,” abolitionist idea of creating a Muslim regis- Trump,” “Daily Show” host Trev- (Requiring Extensive Pre-Spraying) by Robert C. Koehler Theodore Parker wrote more than try, notoriously defended by for- or Noah said to a cheering studio Maybe this 150 years ago, prefiguring mer Trump-backing super PAC audience. “If they start registering UPHOLSTERY much is true. Don- the words of Martin Luther spokesman Carl Higbie, who told Muslims in America, we all regis- CLEANING ald Trump, pseu- King. “The arc is a long Megyn Kelly of Fox News, “We ter as Muslims.” do-president-elect, one, my eye reaches but lit- did it during World War II with the And slowly the arc of the moral Sofa: $69.00 loser of the real tle ways; I cannot calculate Japanese.” He proceeded to cite universe bends toward justice. Loveseat: $49.00 election, charismat- the curve and complete the the internment camps, quasi-pris- “Noah said that if all citizens Sectional: $109 - $139 ic stump-speech figure by the experience ons in which as many as 120,000 stood with immigrants and said, Chair or Recliner: populist whose ac- of sight; I can divine it by Americans of Japanese ancestry ‘I am a Muslim,’ it ‘would take $25 - $49 tual ability to gov- conscience. And from what were forced to live between 1942 away any power the registry might ern may well be non-existent, has Throw Pillows (With inflicted significant damage on Other Services): $5.00 America’s political infrastructure. We pledge to stand together with Muslims across This is scary, of course, but not ADDITIONAL necessarily a bad thing. I say this the country, and around the world. Because when SERVICES even, or especially, if he manages we stand as one, no American can be singled out by • Area & Oriental Rug to assemble a far right, white-na- Cleaning tionalist-friendly cabinet and in- their race, religion, income, gender identity or sexual • Auto/Boat/RV Cleaning ner circle and starts attempting to • Deodorizing & Pet implement some of the promises orientation. Odor Treatment he made on the campaign trail. If the Trump pseudo-presidency is I see I am sure it bends towards and 1946, as a “precedent.” have,’ according to Huffington • Spot & Stain “normalized” and we-the-people justice.” “Look,” he said, “the president Post reporter David Moye. Removal Service and the media shrug our shoulders But the arc doesn’t bend by it- needs to protect America first.” And several websites have • Scotchguard Protection at the rebuilding of Jim Crow Na- self. What does it mean to “protect sprung up creating this opportuni- • Minor Water Damage tion — the Wall, the Muslim regis- The Trump era may be defined America”? This is now a concept ty, including a site called Register Services try and God knows what happens less by the damage he inflicts than that is up for grabs, thanks to the US: next — then yes, this is a disaster by the outrage he incurs: the out- non-election of Donald Trump. As “Donald Trump has said he SEE CURRENT FLYER and moving to Canada is a viable rage of a public that loves this his baldly racist plan to pretend to would ‘absolutely’ require all FOR ADDITIONAL option. But if Trump, instead, is country but also manages to love protect America gains publicity, Muslims to register in a database. PRICES & SERVICES the reincarnation of Bull Con- the whole planet and revere the determination to oppose it also This is just one of Trump’s racist nor, someone who makes a dark, principles of compassion and con- grows, and, in that opposition, and Islamophobic proposals that Call for Appointment hidden ugliness suddenly clear to nection. This may, indeed, be an bring deeper values into play in Continued on Page 39 (503) 281-3949 the public at large, then his rise era of change, but not the change our national politics. Page 32 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition Arts ENTERTAINMENT& Lunch Program Honors King Volunteers for a backpack in need in northeast Portland,” lunch program for kids invite reads the invite from the North- friends and families to a commu- east Portland BackPack Lunch nity service and remembrance Program. for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. After the MLK program, par- on the MLK National Holiday, ticipants will pack 825 lunch Monday, Jan. 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 sacks for the 226 children that p.m. at Maranatha Church, 4222 backpack program serves, cre- N.E. 12th Ave. The event will be ate care cards to be tucked into hosted by Fremont United Meth- the sacks; fold origami cranes odist Church, Maranatha Church for peace and healing; and share and Concordia University. dreams for a better future. Chil- “In this time of uncertainty dren can take part in King-relat- for our country and the chal- ed activities lenges we face, let’s gather in re- Participants are invited to membrance to draw inspiration bring cans of soup and ravioli from the memory of Dr. King, to help fill the lunch sacks. Cash encourage each other to pursue donations will also be accepted Paper is folded into cranes to represent peace and healing, one of the activities that will take place our dreams for our country, and as just a $25 donation sponsors during a special community service event to pack lunches for kids and a Martin Luther King Jr. show our care for our children 12 weekend lunches. remembrance coming to Maranatha Church on the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

The Book can be found a four locations: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble Booksellers Bookstore Barnes & Noble 12000 Se 82nd Ave Bookstore Happy Valley, OR 97086” 1317 Lloyd Ctr Portland, OR 97232 Broadway Books 1714 NE Broadway St, Portland, OR 97232 January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 33 2017 special edition

Mississippi Vancouver Alberta East County North Portland Beaverton

The New Year started with Multnomah County being led by a County Commission in which all the elected members are from minority groups for the first time ever. Pic- tured (from left) are County Chair Deborah Kafoury and Commissioners Sharon Meieran, Jessica Vega Pederson, Lori Stegmann and Loretta Smith. Role Models of Color County achieves first majority minority board Multnomah County ushered in erson, who represents east Port- of the poorest neighborhoods in version of Bingo in exchange for didn’t have any role model of col- the New Year by welcoming three land, and Lori Stegmann, who Oregon.” blocks of cheese, powdered milk or,” she said. new commissioners to its board represents east Multnomah Coun- Stegmann is the first Asian and other donated foods. That has changed. Stegmann and setting a new bar for diversity ty and Gresham. They join in- American elected to the board. She “Why is there so much shame grew her own business as an in- in representative government with cumbent Commissioner Loretta was adopted as a baby from South in being poor?” she wonders. “Of- surance agent, bought a house every elected member of the com- Smith, who represents north Port- Korea and raised in a low-in- ten times you don’t have anything in a middle class neighborhood, mission representing a minority land and Chair Deborah Kafoury, come family. Her father worked to do with it.” and raised a daughter, who at 18 group, the first time that has ever who leads the board. as a logger and her mother cared Growing up in the 1970s, Steg- can now see a woman serve as happened. “This is a milestone,” said for the family. She still remem- mann said she wanted to be like Gresham’s police chief, women Sharon Meieran, who rep- Stegmann. “As an immigrant, as bers the stigma of receiving food Marsha Brady of the Brady Bunch lawmakers in both her house and resents west Portland, was sworn a minority woman, as someone stamps, sticking actual stamps to TV series, blond and fair skinned. Continued on Page 37 in along with Jessica Vega Ped- who grew up in Rockwood, one a card in what was like a shameful “When I was growing up, I Page 34 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition BUSINESSGuideArts ENTERTAINMENT& Music Millennium laid the foundation of Free Shows -- The Music American democracy Millennium, 3158 E. Burnside, are on view in a new exhibit regularly hosts a series of in-house at the Oregon Historical Society, live performances. Enjoy free music and the downtown, through Feb. 1. opportunity to meet artists. Call 503-231- 8926 for a current schedule.

Breakout Tuesdays Hip Hop -- JAMN 107.5 and Cool Nutz from the Breakout Show present Breakout Tuesdays each third Tuesday History Hub -- Oregon Historical Society of the month at the Ash Street, 225 S.W. Ash. exhibit for young people explores the topic of The shows will feature performances from $5.00 TEES diversity with interactive objects and pictures some of the top rappers from the Northwest. CLUBS that tell the stories of the people of Oregon, Hosted by Juma Blaq and DJ Fatboy. FAMILY REUNIONS past and present. With puzzles, touch screen Clothing Closet -- Each first Saturday of the SCHOOL CLUBS activities and board games, History Hub asks month, a complimentary breakfast and clothing BUSINESSES students to consider questions like “Who is drive takes place at First AME Zion Church, SCREEN PRINTING an Oregonian?,” “How has discrimination 4304 N. Vancouver Ave. The goal is to clothe and segregation affected people who live in and feed Portland one person at a time. For 503-762-6042 Oregon?,” and “How can you make Oregon a more information, call Nydia Campbell-Pullom 971-570-8214 great place for everyone?” at 503-317-1089Fourth Sunday Jam Night Teen Late Night Returns -- A popular Teen -- A friends and family variety comedy show

R Late Night program through Vancouver Parks in a Saturday Night Live format with local State Farm and Recreation is back. Young people between recording and performing artists, bands, dance PLATINUM the ages of 11 and 18 are invited to enjoy crews, poets, and drama groups, takes place a safe night of free recreational activities each fourth Sunday of the month at 7 p.m. at Michael E Harper FADE every Friday night at either the Fistenburg or Celebration Tabernacle, 8131 N. Denver Ave. Agent Marshall community centers. The free event is open to the community. Norman Sylvester -- Discount Tickets -- Local low-income families Providing SALON ‘Boogie Cat’ Norman and individuals can purchase $5 tickets to Insurance Sherman Jackson Sylvester plays Friday, classical musical performances in Portland and Financial Jan. 13 at the Spare as part of a unique program called Music for Services cell 503-891-5905 Room; Saturday, Jan 14 All. Participating organizations include the Home Office, Bloomingon, M-F 9:00am-9:00pm at the Vinyl Tap in Oak Oregon Symphony, Portland Opera, Oregon Illinois 61710 Sat 8:00am-9:00pm Grove; Friday, Jan. 20 at Ballet Theater, Chamber Music Northwest, the Rogue Pub in North Plains; Saturday, Jan. Portland Youth Philharmonic, Portland We are located at: Sun 11:00am-6:00pm 9713 S.W. Capitol, Portland, OR 21 at the Blue Diamond; and Saturday, Jan. 28 Baroque Orchestra, Friends of Chamber 5010 NE 9th, Unit A at Clyde’s. Music, Portland Chamber Orchestra, Portland 503-221-3050 Piano International, Portland Symphonic Fax 503-227-8757 Portland, Oregon 97211 Democracy’s Blueprints -- The Declaration 503-284-2989 of Independence, U.S. Constitution and Bill Choir, Cappella Romana and Portland Vocal [email protected] of Rights, and other bedrock documents that Consort. Shalon Xcellence Double J Dr. Marcelitte Failla Owner/Stylist Tires Gentle, Effective New & Used Tires Chiropractic Physician 8407 NE Fremont Chiropractic Care Portland, OR 97220 Overstock & Used Tires $20 & up Priced To Sell Call for Appointment: 503-228-6140 Specializing in: 503-890-6814 All tires mounted & balanced on the car, out the door – no [email protected] • Motor Vehicle Accidents additives. • Workers compensation Free stock wheels w/ purchase of any new or used tire • Headaches limited to stock on hand 30 years • Neck, Shoulder and in business Back Pain 2 locations to Serve You 6841 NE MLK, Portland 3539 N. Williams Ave 503-283-9437 Suite #2 4510 SE 52nd & Holgate Portland, Or 97227 503-771-1834 January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 35 2017 special edition Arts ENTERTAINMENT& A Hunger for Films about ‘Hidden Figures’ room, and is met with stunned and Opinionated chastened silence from her entire department. Her white male su- Judge pervisor then marches down to the by Judge colored restroom and knocks down Darleen its signage. Ortega I’m confident that scenes like I am often struck by the narrow that just didn’t happen. Johnson’s range of stories that see the light white supervisor never tore down of day in American films and pop- any Jim Crow signs. Her most ob- ular media. The films we have structionist male colleague did not had up to now about the Ameri- suddenly experience a change of can space program, for example, heart and begin bringing her cof- depict rooms full of white men fee. Vaughn’s nemesis likewise and, in general, what few films did not suddenly begin treating her we have depicting black women with respect. Somehow Johnson, rarely center on their experience Vaughn, and Jackson and women and certainly don’t involve their like them survived despite the im- contributions to American history pediments of racism and white su- or scientific exploration. Contrary premacy, but it cannot have been to the excuse offered by Kevin primarily because of changes of Costner in a recent MSNBC inter- heart in their white counterparts. view, the stories we are missing on That is not how racism and white screen are not necessarily found in supremacy manifest, and as much history books, nor can their ab- photo courtesy Hopper Stone/20th Century Fox as I appreciated the pieces of their sence from popular media be ex- A scene from the film ‘Hidden Figures’ depicts black employees at NASA during the 1960s when the story that were told in “Hidden plained by the view that, really, workforce was segregated by race. Figures,” I left longing for a more “how many stories can you tell?” insightful and honest rendition of The black women whose via Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, male colleagues undermine her Yet in many ways the struggles how oppressed people manage to mathematical skills powered the are among a large number of black and take credit for her work, and are smoothed over, suggesting the endure slights that don’t have an American space program in the women who were employed as hu- install a separate “colored” coffee filmmakers’ likely unconscious de- end date, how they manage to pull 1960s would still be unknown to man “computers” before machines pot for her, the only person of col- sire to spare viewers too much dis- out their best work over and over most of us were it not for a recent could do that work. Women with or in her unit. Spencer’s charac- comfort. The women live in nice again when no one supports them book by Margot Lee Shetterly, the right skills were thought to be ter, Dorothy Vaughn, supervises homes and have wardrobes, hair, and no one applauds or even sees which became the basis for the more likely to approach the task of a department for years without and make-up that is too art-direct- it. I’m still looking for the film new film “Hidden Figures.” The mathematical calculation with the the benefit of the title or pay that ed to be realistic (a common Hol- that more honestly grapples with film focuses on three of the many necessary dogged attention to de- goes along with it, and she and lywood problem), suggesting that how it is that such figures remain women whose lives are explored tail -- but in the segregated South, her sons are kicked out of the lo- their lives, though separate from hidden. This film brings important in Shetterly’s book, and provides black women did the work in a cal public library for not confining white folks, are basically otherwise bits to light, but still leaves them a long-neglected window into separate section of NASA, with themselves to the poorly-stocked equal. They vigorously call out partially obscured. their particular stories and the separate bathrooms and cafeterias. colored section. Monáe’s charac- racism with a clarity that was much Darleen Ortega is a judge on larger context for the women who The film devotes some atten- ter, Mary Jackson, has to petition more dangerous and unlikely in the Oregon Court of Appeals and worked as “computers” in the tion to the realities of life under the city to allow her to take the 1962, with consequences no worse the first woman of color to serve space program in the mid-20th segregation. Henson’s character, courses she needs to pursue an en- than being ignored. And the im- in that capacity. Her movie review century. Katherine Johnson, has to run half gineering degree because they are pact of their words on white peo- column Opinionated Judge ap- It is about time we learned these a mile in heels in all weather just only taught in an all-white school. ple is overplayed, as when Johnson pears regularly in The Portland stories, and I do mean to urge ev- to get to the nearest “colored” la- The level of specificity depicted blows up at her office colleagues Observer. Find her movie blog at eryone to see this film, which dies room to relieve herself; her here is more than we usually see. about her long treks to the ladies opinionatedjudge.blogspot.com. gives a flavor of the contributions of such women and the barriers Providing Insurance and Financial Services they faced to build their careers. I Avalon Flowers hope, however, that we will avoid Home Office, Bloomington, Illinois 61710 what appears to be a widespread 520 SW 3rd Ave., Portland, temptation to minimize those OR 97204 • 503-796-9250 barriers and to over-applaud Hol- Ernest J. Hill, Jr. Agent lywood for giving us one film in which accomplished and intelli- A full service flower experience 4946 N. Vancouver Avenue, gent women of color are the cen- Portland, OR 97217 tral focus. This is at best a start, • Birthdays • Anniversaries and by no means a perfect one; Cori Stewart-- 503 286 1103 Fax 503 286 1146 our hunger for such stories should Owner, Operator • Funerals • Weddings not divert us from pushing for a [email protected] broader range of narratives and for Open: Mon.-Fri. 7:30am til 5:30pm 24 Hour Good Neighbor Service R those stories to be told with less pandering to the dominant culture. Saturday 9am til 2pm. The three real-life women at Website: avalonflowerspdx.com the center of the film, engagingly email: [email protected] State Farm R played by Taraji P. Henson, Octa- We Offer Wire Services Page 36 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition Arts ENTERTAINMENT&

Sweet Street Food Cart on the corner of 15th and Alberta call 503-995-6150 to place order Monday - Friday, 11:00am - 7:00pm

Portland vocal artists Neka and Kahlo make a return performance at the annual Girl Fest, Saturday, Jan. 14 at the Crystal Ballroom, Karma Rivera downtown. Making Noise in the Northwest Girl Fest, Portland’s own, all- All-girls music festival makes return girls and all-ages mini-music fes- Sweet Street Market Special tival returns to Lola’s Room at the for Martin Luther King Birthday Crystal Ballroom, downtown, on Saturday, Jan. 14. Buy one chicken dinner get 1 free chicken sandwich Founded three years ago to (Half-off with this coupon -- Expires February 28, 2017) support and spotlight the talent- ed young women making music in and around the Northwest, the Girl Fest 2017 lineup will feature an array of genres; everything from hip hop, to alternative, singer songwriter, and pop infused mod- ern jazz. Hosted by Blossom, this year’s lineup will include performanc- es by Coco Columbia, Karma Rivera, Neka & Kahlo, Haley Heyndrickx, Courtney Noe and students from My Voice Music’s Student Mentorship Program. The show starts at 7 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m. For more information, visit girlfest.org.

Showdogs is a full service salon. We do baths, all over hair cuts, tooth brushing, nail trims, soft claws, flea treatments, mud baths, and ear clean- ing. We also have health care and grooming prod- ucts to keep your pet clean in between visits. Show Dogs Grooming Salon & Boutique 926 N. Lombard Portland, OR 97217 503-283-1177 Tuesday-Saturday 9am-7pm Monday 10am-4pm Yo dawg is gonna look like a show dawg and your kitty will be pretty. January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 37 2017 special edition Role Models of Color as a lawyer, then as an emergen- Continued from Page 33 cy-room doctor, then sitting on senate districts, and now her mom boards and committees mostly led in county government. by men. Stegmann wept as she reflected She champions access to men- on what her election might mean tal health services for people in for residents who feel unheard or crisis and culturally-appropriate unseen. services for immigrants and ref- “My election isn’t about me. ugees. She’s also advocated for It’s about my community, East reproductive health, especially for County,” she said. “Their voices. low-income women and women of Their concerns.” color, who experience the highest Stegmann plans to work on rates of unintended pregnancies; a finding solutions to homeless- driver that perpetuates poverty. ness, the rising costs of housing, Meieran supports the philoso- and disparities in criminal justice. phy of the group One Key Ques- She supports programs such as the tion, which asks simply, “Would Law Enforcement Assisted Di- you like to become pregnant in version pilot launching this year the next year?” “If the answer is in downtown Portland which will ‘yes,’ then let’s make sure you’re Multnomah County Commissioner Lori Stegmann, the first Asian American elected to the county’s five divert drug users from arrest to re- as healthy as you can be,” she member governing board, is sworn into office on Jan. 3 by the honorable Multnomah County Circuit covery. said. Maybe that means folic acid Court Judge Adrienne Nelson. The Multnomah County Board supplements or controlling diabe- housing costs are pushing people they want to engage. They think Shortly after being elected was entirely white and male until tes. “It honors women who want of color, immigrants and refugees you’re more apt to listen. There’s in 2010, Smith held a town hall 1974, when Alice Corbett -- a for- to become pregnant. It honors a and low-income families further an expectation that we’ll be more meeting for African American mer teacher, hardware-store own- woman’s choice.” east. receptive to their needs, that it will men and more than 300 attendees er and state senator -- was elected. Multnomah County is home Commissioner Loretta Smith, define how we administer public expressed their frustration over Gladys McCoy, a social work- to more than 50,000 Latino resi- elected to represent north Port- policy, and how we spend our re- the lack of summer jobs for teens. er from Georgia, was elected in dents, but the county has had few land, takes pride in her roots in the sources.” So she created the Summerworks 1978, the first African American elected Latino leaders. Serena African American community and Smith has heard concerns about internship program. What started member of the board. And in 1987 Cruz was the first Hispanic Amer- her role of representing diverse a lack of access to social services with 25 kids has grown to provide voters ushered in the first all-wom- ican elected, in 1998, followed by and disadvantaged residents. for families in east Portland, and jobs to more than 500 young peo- en board. The commissioners in- Maria Rojo De Steffey three years Serving as an “ambassador” lands she pushed to implement the ple a year. cluded Gretchen Kafoury, mother later. on her shoulders. Promise Neighborhoods Initia- For the first time, last summer, of current Chair Kafoury. Jessica Vega Pederson is the “You have to serve two com- tive, providing culturally specif- Smith saw the seeds of that advo- Deborah Kafoury remembers county’s third Latina commis- munities,” she said. “When people ic, community-based services for cacy. An intern told her, “I want to as a girl her mother talking about sioner. She previously served in see someone who looks like them, kids of color. be you.” how she was treated as a first-term the Oregon House where she was legislator in the state House of the first Latina elected and where Representatives. “People would she fought for access to govern- call her sweetie, and honey and ment-issued driving cards for un- pinch her butt,” Kafoury said. documented Oregonians, equal Gretchen Kafoury dedicated pay for women, paid sick leave her adult life to getting women and higher minimum wages. Lo- elected to office, as co-founder of cally, she has lobbied for money the Oregon chapter of the National to install flashing crosswalks on Organization for Women and lat- some of the busiest and darkest er the Oregon Women’s Political four-lane roads that carry east Caucus. Portland commuters to downtown “She was all about women and jobs. Health and sustainable com- women’s’ rights. Gender politics munities top her agenda going into was her thing,” Deborah Kafoury her four-year term. said. “It wasn’t that she was a “In east Portland we’re tired of politician who happened to be a being the exception to services, woman. She was a woman.” being told, ‘oh we’ll get to it next Like the Kafoury women, Sha- year,’” she said. Pedestrian fa- ron Meieran has learned to navi- talities in her neighborhood are gate male-dominated arenas, first the highest in the county. Rising Page 38 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition Classified/Bids Academic Instructor! NW Portland! ArtsENTERTAINMENT Valid Oregon Teaching Metro runs the Oregon Zoo, Certification required. One year & Oregon Convention Center, exp. preferred. $43, 704.95 Portland Expo Center and annual salary + benefits. Apply Portland’5 Center for the Arts at www.mtcjobs.com. Req. and provides services that #10116BR. Women, veterans, cross city limits and county minorities, persons with lines including land use and disabilities encourage to apply. transportation planning, parks We are an Equal Opportunity and nature programs, and Employer! garbage and recycling systems. Visit oregonmetro.gov/jobs for “I Have a Dream” Oregon current openings and a link to Senior Marketing & our online hiring center. Communications Coordinator Metro is an Affirmative Action / SALARY: Commensurate with Equal Opportunity Employer experience CLOSING DATE: Position open Holocaust Survivor to Jazz Musician until filled Frank’s Song, a jazz film that documents a Portland man’s life, but also the city itself with hits history “I Have a Dream” Oregon is of ship builders and jazz musicians, screens on Thursday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. in the Whitsell Auditorium looking for a full-time Senior at the Portland Art Museum. The documentary highlights Frank Wesley’s life is a holocaust survivor, Event Manager, part-time, Marketing & Communications World War II combat veteran, psychology professor to renowned author and finally jazz musician. Portland Expo Center, $21.82 Coordinator. The Coordinator – $30.56 hourly. Deadline: will provide important leadership 1/16/2017 to our marketing, PR, design and Event Receptionist, part- messaging areas, as well as all of our stewardship efforts. The time, Portland Expo Center, Coordinator will need to be an $12.54 – $16.30 hourly. Dead- exceptionally talented, highly line: 1/16/2017 collaborative team player. For Facility Security Agent, full- complete job announcement time, Oregon Convention Cen- visit: http://www.dreamoregon. ter, $15.20 - $18.13 hourly. org/careers . Email applications Deadline: 1/20/2017 to Sharon Mayo, sharonm@ Stage Operations Assis- dreamoregon.org . Review of applications will begin February tant, part-time, temporary, 15, 2017. Portland’5 Centers for the Arts, $13.78 – $17.92 hourly. Dead- line: 1/13/2017 These opportunities are open L e g a l N o t i c e s to First Opportunity Target Area (FOTA) residents: This area in- cludes the following zip codes photo by Milagro Theatre Photo by Russell J. Young located primarily in N, NE and The Latino arts and cultural center Milagro presents the world premiere of El Payaso, a play born a small portion of SE Portland: from the incredible story of the late Ben Linder, an engineer and clown for a cause whose memory 97024, 97030, 97203, 97211, lives on in the work of Clowns without Borders. 97212, 97213, 97216, 97217, 97218, 97220, 97227, 97230, without Borders and various envi- 97233, 97236, and 97266, A Clown for a Cause ronmental groups that are collabo- whose total annual income was rating to bring his story to life. worked to bring electricity to ru- less than $47,000 for a house- With red noses and humor, El Latino theater ral villages in Nicaragua 30 years hold of up to two individuals or Payaso shares the value of “think- ago. He participated in rallies and less than $65,000 for a house- ing globally, while acting locally.” group brings health campaigns that brought hold of three or more. El Payaso is presented as part of vaccines to children. El Payaso the 2017 Fertile Ground Festival, Visit oregonmetro.gov/FOTA for story to life Need to publish a court is told through the eyes of Elías, an 11-day arts festival showcasing the complete job announcement Southeast Portland’s Milago a Latino college student who en- new work from local Portland art- and a link to our online hiring cen- document or notice? Theater presents a world premier counters people who are still car- ists. Shows run Thursday, Jan. 12 ter or visit our lobby kiosk at Met- Need an affidavit of of El Payaso. rying on Linder’s work. through Saturday, Jan. 21 at Mi- ro, 600 NE Grand Ave, Portland. Amidst chaos, confusion and Linder was killed by Contras in lagro Theater, 525 S.W. Stark St. Metro is an Affirmative Action / publication quickly war, Ben Linder, an American Nicaragua in 1987 but his memo- For more information, visit mila- Equal Opportunity Employer and efficiently? engineer and clown for a cause ry lives on in the work of Clowns gro.org or call 503-236-7253. Please fax or e-mail your notice for a free books for kids and adults in a Drivers: Local, Home Nightly! price quote! Books for Kids and Adults wide variety of genres. Books will Fort Vancouver Regional Li- raiser that helps support the li- be bargain priced at $1 for most Portland Refer & Fax: 503-288-0015 Hillsboro Flatbed. brary Foundation is hosting a three- brary’s programs and services hardbacks and paperbacks and day used book sale with thousands and will be held in Library Hall, 50 cents for mass-market adult Great Pay, Benefits! e-mail: of books on Thursday, Friday, and the former Vancouver Community fiction paperbacks. We will also CDL-A, 1yr Exp. Req. [email protected] Estenson Logistics Saturday, Jan. 12-14 from 9 a.m. to Library building, at 1007 E. Mill have DVDs and CDs for $1 per Apply www.goelc.com The Portland Observer 6 p.m. all three days. Plain Blvd. disc. You’ll find something for ev- 1-855-420-1374 Bookapalooza ’17 is a fund- The event will feature used eryone. January 11, 2017 Martin Luther King Jr. Page 39 2017 special edition Precisely the Wrong Man to Lead Subscribe! zen’s civil rights. right to vote. 503-288-0033 Fill Out & Send To: Continued from Page 30 Sen. Sessions would become We call upon the Senate to Attn: Subscriptions, PO Box 3137, Portland OR 97208 brutality, Sen. Sessions stands on the Attorney General under a pres- reject Sessions and for Presi- $45.00 for 3 months • $80.00 for 6 mo. • $125.00 for 1 year opposite ground. He has repeated ident who supports nationalizing dent-elect Donald J. Trump to (please include check with this subscription form) stood against the consent decree, the racist and disproven “stop and replace Sessions with a nominee Name: a main tool of the DOJ to reel in frisk,” strategy. Both Sessions and with a record of inclusion and Telephone: racist and unaccountable police the incoming president are sup- commitment to protecting the civ- Address: departments. In a report by the Al- porters of the DOD 1033 program il rights of the American majority. or email [email protected] abama Policy Institute, Sen. Ses- which allows police department’s The NAACP does not believe sions called consent decrees: “One access to surplus military equip- that an election where the incom- of the most dangerous, and rarely ment including tanks, armored ing president lost the popular vote discussed, exercises of raw power vehicles, grenade launchers and by nearly 3 million votes rep- is the issuance of expansive court more. He also opposes the re- resents a mandate to overhaul the The Law Offices of decrees. Consent decrees have a moval of mandatory minimum America of the Majority. The vote profound effect on our legal sys- sentences and blocked efforts to remains the most important re- Patrick John Sweeney, P.C. tem as they constitute an end run reduce nonviolent drug sentenc- source in making democracy real around the democratic process.” ing despite wide bi-partisan sup- for all people. Patrick John Sweeney While under the administration port for doing so. If not enough, As we have since 1909, the of President Barack Obama, the Sen. Sessions has repeatedly vot- NAACP will continue to stand Attorney at Law DOJ’s Civil Rights Division made ed against safe, sane, and sensible against Senator Sessions and any investigating police departments measures to stem the tide of gun attempts to unravel the progress 1549 SE Ladd, Portland, Oregon charged with racism and police violence. earned through the blood, sweat brutality a key focus by interven- Given that these are issues and tears of our people to enjoy ing in high-profile cases in - Fer our nation the attorney general is the same rights under law as all Portland: (503) 244-2080 guson, Missouri and Baltimore, sworn to protect and enforce his Americans. Hillsoboro: (503) 244-2081 Maryland to impose consent de- nomination represents an ongoing Cornell William Brooks is pres- crees and reforms to correct mis- and dangerous threat to our civic ident and chief executive officer of Facsimile: (503) 244-2084 behavior and the violation of citi- birthrights –particularly, and the the NAACP. Email: [email protected] Greater Truth of One Planet, One Humanity them mentality that still imprisons call it patriotic absolutism, which Continued from Page 31 it and keeps it tied to fear and — yields fear, violence and war. threaten our ideals of freedom and yes, oh Lord — war. Trump could Trump or no Trump, this caged equality. We must come togeth- foment a revolution that is the thinking has had its day. The pri- er and fight back before he takes opposite of the one his campaign mary characteristic of truth, some- these dangerous, hateful and un- rhetoric called out for. one once said, is that it willingly constitutional ideas any further. I believe a larger consciousness yields to greater truth. It’s con- “We pledge to stand together is waiting to lay claim on Ameri- venient to organize a nation state with Muslims across the country, can politics. around the lesser truth of us vs. and around the world. Because Trump says build a wall. Even them and the ever-lurking pres- when we stand as one, no Amer- if the wall is mostly a metaphor, ence of The Enemy, but the time ican can be singled out by their the effect of that metaphor is to has come for this truth to yield to race, religion, income, gender lock in consciousness, as though the greater truth of one planet, one identity or sexual orientation.” “America” is the only truth Ameri- humanity. If such a movement grows, cans are capable of understanding: Perhaps it begins with these its effect would not be simply to Fifty states and that’s it. We’re ex- words: “I am a Muslim.” defeat a bad plan and return the ceptional and the rest of you, keep Robert Koehler, syndicat- country to some sort of pre-Trump out. Locked-in consciousness ed by PeaceVoice, is a Chicago normal, but rather to push the never keeps people safe, but it award-winning journalist and ed- nation further beyond the us-vs.- does keep them scared. You might itor. Page 40 Martin Luther King Jr. January 11, 2017 2017 special edition