Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

PCC Celebrates Black History Month

At Portland Community College, we proudly celebrate Black History Month as an opportunity to honor the contributions, achievements, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history. This month is a time to reflect on the past, as well as celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of the Black culture that enriches our campus and society.

Established in 1926 by noted Black historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Black History Month evolved to become a month-long event in 1976. February was selected because Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln have birthdays during the month. The annual event provides an opportunity to learn about the history and impact of Black Americans.

Throughout the month, we invite you to join us in engaging programs, thoughtful discussions, and cultural events designed to educate, inspire, and connect. Black history is American history, and at PCC, we are committed to fostering a community where all stories are celebrated.

About the PCC Black History Month graphic

This year’s PCC Black History Month graphic highlights the struggles and achievements of Black people past and present.

The use of red, black, green, and yellow draw inspiration from the Pan-African flag, which symbolizes pride, unity, and heritage. The use of bold, geometric shapes in the background and font exude an empowering tone, reflecting resilience and determination. The imagery was chosen to represent the diverse and layered narrative within Black culture.

1. Jazz

   Jazz music originated in the early 20th century within Black communities in New Orleans, blending African rhythms, spirituals, blues, and ragtime into a groundbreaking art form. Jazz is a powerful expression of Black culture and resilience, and shapes music worldwide. Portland is the proud host of the annual PDX Jazz Fest, the largest organization presenting jazz performances and education programming in the Pacific Northwest.

2. Edmund Pettus Bridge

   The Edmund Pettus Bridge became a symbol of the momentous changes taking place in Alabama during the Civil Rights Movement. It was here that voting rights marchers were violently confronted by law enforcement personnel on March 7, 1965. The day became known as Bloody Sunday, and this landmark serves as a reminder of the courage of activists during those times.

3. Portland Observer

   The Portland Observer is the oldest continuous African-American owned publication in Oregon. Established in 1970, it is published weekly in Portland and committed to highlighting a variety of cultures. They focus on stories about education, health, politics, law, and justice.

4. Margaret Carter Technology Education Building

   PCC’s Margaret Carter Technology Education Building on the Cascade Campus was named after PCC alum and the first Black woman elected to the state’s legislature. She served in the Oregon House of Representatives until 1999, and then in the Oregon State Senate from 2001 to 2009. The Margaret Carter Skill Center assists unemployed and underemployed students by providing occupational training.