Black Lives Matter

The graphic above is courtesy of Black Lives Matter. Visit the website to download graphics to use on social media and show your support.

Support for Black Lives Matter and the Anti-Racism Movement

“The emotional and psychological impact of racism means acutely, every day, being reminded that you are not enough, being reminded that you are not seen, being reminded that you are not valued, being reminded that you are not a citizen, being reminded that humanity is not something that applies to you.”
– Dr. Alisha  Moreland-Capuia, past Prosper Portland Commissioner [USA Today,  May 28, 2020]

Ways to support Black Lives Matter and the Anti-Racism Movement

Many local Black elected and civic leaders have shared powerful insights in recent days that help contextualize the current moment, including:

Organizations and funds to support: 

Fiction

  • The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
  • Piecing Myself Together by Portland author Renee Watson

Non-fiction

  • Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
  • We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates
  • The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
  • This is How We Fight for Our Lives by Said Jones (*Note: this memoir may be too explicit for some readers)
  • A Human Being Died That Night by Pumla Gobodo-Madikizela
  • A Colony Within a Nation by Chris Hayes
  • White Fragility by Robin Diangelo
  • For Our White Friends Desiring to be Allies

Websites

Podcasts

Prosper Portland stands in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and the eradication of white supremacy.

As we bear witness to the grief, anger, fear, resistance and resolve the community is expressing in response to the murder of George Floyd and 400 years of systemic racism in our country, we have important work to do.

We recognize that the emotional burden of this time is much more significant for our Black colleagues, community partners and business owners and is re-traumatizing for everyone who feels unsafe because of the color of their skin.  And we know that Prosper Portland’s past racist actions in the name of urban renewal, with disproportionate impact on Black Portlanders, remains a permanent stain on the history of our organization.

We believe transformational change is possible.  As we consider how our community and agency move forward, our actions must be grounded in anti-racism. We will continue to work toward becoming an organization that embodies equitable strategies and creating a culture that ensures Black lives are valued.

In line with our mission, we are redoubling our commitment to supporting Black-owned businesses and Black employees in accessing economic opportunities and achieving growth. Our staff and programs are on hand to acknowledge these experiences, help to find community, and provide assistance.

Anti-racism requires using your own power as an individual to act. Being non-racist is not enough. Those who don’t identify as Black, particularly white people, can step up as allies through engaging in the work to support Black lives.

Related content: Beyond Black History Month