The Portland, Oregon branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1914. As one of the longest-running civil rights organizations in the Pacific Northwest, the NAACP Portland has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and equality of all individuals, particularly in the realms of political, educational, social, and economic justice.
Beatrice Morrow Cannady, the editor of the Advocate, which is the largest African-American newspaper in the state, co-founded the Portland NAACP. She was also the first Black woman to graduate from Lewis & Clark Law School. The other co-founder was Dr. J. N. Merriman, who served as the branch’s first president.
At the core of the NAACP’s mission is the commitment to ensuring equality of rights for all persons while actively working to eliminate racial hatred and discrimination. The organization has established a robust network of committees that focus on various critical issues, including political awareness and action, housing, economic development, health and wellness, education, and environmental and climate justice. These committees are instrumental in mobilizing community efforts and driving initiatives that promote equity and justice across the region.
In recent years, the NAACP Portland has hosted impactful events that showcase its commitment to civil rights. The annual dinner has featured prominent speakers such as Tennessee Representative Justin J. Pearson and actor Hill Harper, both of whom delivered powerful messages about the importance of civil rights in today’s society. These events have garnered significant attention, often selling out at the convention center, reflecting the community’s eagerness to engage with and support the mission of the NAACP.
The organization’s advocacy is encapsulated in its slogan, “History is Ours Be Bold,” which serves as a rallying cry for all who believe in the fight for justice. This phrase emphasizes the importance of recognizing the past while boldly stepping into the future to create lasting change.
Leading the Portland branch is James Posey, a dedicated advocate for equity and civil rights. Recently reelected as president, Posey is known for his tireless work in ensuring that Black contractors receive equitable opportunities in state and city contracts. His commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion predates the current social movements, showcasing his visionary leadership. A Vietnam veteran and Air Force serviceman, Posey has lived in Portland for 45 years and has made significant contributions to the community. He founded Workhorse Construction Metro Inc., co-founded the Portland Coalition of Black Men, and has previously run for mayor, all while championing the causes of civil rights and community growth.
The NAACP, founded in 1909 by notable figures such as W. E. B. Du Bois, Ida B. Wells, Mary Church Terrell, and Mary White Ovington, has been a cornerstone in the fight for civil rights in the United States. As the oldest civil rights organization in the country, the NAACP has been instrumental in advocating for voting rights, fair trials, and access to public education, while also working to secure diverse representation in the courts.
The impact of the NAACP extends beyond the courtroom; it has been a vital player in influencing change through Congress, the White House, and grassroots movements across the nation. The Portland branch continues this legacy, standing at the forefront of the civil rights movement in the Pacific Northwest, ensuring that the fight for equality and justice continues for generations to come.
