About Us

Who We Are

Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. For more than 30 years, we’ve illuminated the seldom-told stories of people of African descent in Oregon through our engaging exhibits, public programs, publications, and historical research. Additionally, we partner with local organizations to identify, interpret, and preserve sites with African American historical significance.

Our Mission is to research, recognize, and commemorate the history and heritage of African Americans in Oregon.

Our Story

Our organization was founded in Salem, Oregon in 1993 by Carol Davis, David Burgess, and Jackie Winters. After some initial success, the organization went dormant in 1996. In 2004, former Board member Willie Richardson revived the organization and brought a renewed focus on research, education, and community building. Under Willie’s leadership from 2004-2021, Oregon Black Pioneers became a trusted voice for the study of Oregon’s Black history. Read more here.

Salem Postcard (2) - About Us Our Story Graphic

Team

OBP Staff

Zachary Stocks

Zachary Stocks

Executive Director
Belinda Miller

Belinda Miller

Communications Manager
Mariah Rocker

Mariah Rocker

Public Programs and Exhibits Manager

OBP Board of Directors

Kimberly Moreland

President

Cleo Davis

Vice President

Philip Berlin

Treasurer

Elise Gautier

Secretary

Lillian Green

Troy Tate

Joanne Stewart

LC Miller

Dr. Fay Gyapong-Porter

Sean-Hobbs Waters

Stephen Green

Terra Wheeler

Emeritus Board

Gwen Carr

Darrell Millner

Mary Oberst

Martha Rutherford

Willie Richardson

(In Memoriam)

Hire Oregon Black Pioneers

Working on a Black history project or event? We can help! Visit the Hire Our Team page for details.