Stories

Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing the central role they played in U.S. history. Also known as African American History Month, the event was the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month.

This extraordinary moment we all find ourselves in requires that I am especially thoughtful in the reflections I share with you — our supporters, partners and community — about United Way of the Columbia-Willamette’s response to 2020 and what we learned in the process.

2020 has been an enormously challenging year. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and racial injustice against BIPOC communities, our region is also grappling with devastating loss caused by the wildfires.

Given all that we are facing, the lead up to the elections has been unprecedented in recent history. It has been heartening to see citizens in our region and across the nation take to the polls early and vote in record numbers to ensure their voices are heard during this critical time.

For most, home is a place of comfort, safety, and rest. But unfortunately for the 1 in 3 families in our region who are unable to pay for basic needs, and have to make difficult  choices between paying for rent, and other necessities, the reassurance of a safe place to call home becomes less attainable. 

United Way of the Columbia-Willamette believes that in order to achieve racial equity, we must unite as a society and commit to systemic change. Recent incidents involving violence and threats against African Americans expose the persistent and underlying racism, prejudice and privilege that prevent too many people from being treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

We condemn the brutality that led to the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd in Minneapolis. Our hearts go out in deepest sympathy to his family and the Minneapolis community.

Our country has faced many difficult situations over the years – disasters and economic crises – but nothing quite like this one. It’s why we prepare. For 100 years, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette has been the place where our community joins together to help one another. We always take care of our community and we always emerge stronger than before.