Showing 480 results for tag Community

Conversation Project: Can We Get Along?

Rodney King’s iconic question still resonates today. Despite decades of social justice movements, police brutality and divisions persist in the United States. COVID-19 has only added more challenges. How can we connect to each other during these times? What holds us back from connecting with each other? How do our personal experiences contribute to barriers, or and have the potential to break them down? Join facilitator Chisao Hata as she holds space to examine individual questions on race, cultural values, and what brings us together and what separates us.

Event | April 10, 2024

Conversation Project: Can We Get Along?

Rodney King’s iconic question still resonates today. Despite decades of social justice movements, police brutality and divisions persist in the United States. COVID-19 has only added more challenges. How can we connect to each other during these times? What holds us back from connecting with each other? How do our personal experiences contribute to barriers, or and have the potential to break them down? Join facilitator Chisao Hata as she holds space to examine individual questions on race, cultural values, and what brings us together and what separates us.

RSVP for this conversation.

Event | April 9, 2024

Conversation Project: Loneliness and Aging

Loneliness and isolation are common experiences for elderly people, especially for those who do not have nearby family members or who are not computer literate. What do you know about the elders in your life or in your neighborhood? Are they connected to their families in an enriching way? Do they belong to a caring community of some kind? This conversation is for elderly people and people who live near elders or have elderly people in their lives to explore questions, experiences, and obstacles to showing up for elderly people and to generate ideas for connection.

Event | April 8, 2024

Conversation Project: Loneliness and Aging

Loneliness and isolation are common experiences for elderly people, especially for those who do not have nearby family members or who are not computer literate. What do you know about the elders in your life or in your neighborhood? Are they connected to their families in an enriching way? Do they belong to a caring community of some kind? This conversation is for elderly people and people who live near elders or have elderly people in their lives to explore questions, experiences, and obstacles to showing up for elderly people and to generate ideas for connection.

Event | March 20, 2024

Conversation Project: Loneliness and Aging

Loneliness and isolation are common experiences for elderly people, especially for those who do not have nearby family members or who are not computer literate. What do you know about the elders in your life or in your neighborhood? Are they connected to their families in an enriching way? Do they belong to a caring community of some kind? This conversation is for elderly people and people who live near elders or have elderly people in their lives to explore questions, experiences, and obstacles to showing up for elderly people and to generate ideas for connection.

Event | March 14, 2024

Finding Common Ground Speaker Series: High Desert Partnership

Learn about the many ways the High Desert Partnership in Harney County supports a community of diverse perspectives to collaboratively solve the complex challenges facing rural America. Speakers include Brenda Smith, executive director of HDP; Mara Polenz, communications director; Josh Hanson, forest and range ecological coordinator; Kaylee Littlefield, community involvement and monitoring coordinator; Melissa Petschauer, Harney Basin ecological coordinator; Camille Torres, collaborative project coordinator; and Denise Rose, Harney internship coordinator.

This event is supported by a Minigrant for Rural Libraries from Oregon Humanities.

Event | April 2, 2024

Editorial Advisory Board

Article | February 20, 2024

Programs Advisory Committee

The Oregon Humanities Programs Advisory Committee is an advisory body made up of community members who are connected to and participate in Oregon Humanities programs. This group is charged with advising Oregon Humanities on new program development, current program themes and collaborators, and supports promotion of Oregon Humanities programs in their communities.

Article | February 20, 2024

Community Advisors

In addition to our staff and board of directors, Oregon Humanities relies on community members across the state to help us work toward our vision of an Oregon that invites diverse perspectives, explores challenging questions, and strives for just communities.

Article | February 19, 2024

Tips for Facilitating Reflective Conversations

Four facilitators share tips on leading reflective conversations.

Article | December 5, 2023

Consider This Discussion Group: Getting Older and Staying Connected

Oregon Humanities invites you to a discussion on the themes and ideas from our November 6 event Consider This on Getting Older and Staying Connected at AllCare Health in Grants Pass. 

Oregon Humanities Program Manager Rozzell Medina will facilitate the group discussion in English through Zoom.

RSVP here to participate.

Event | November 9, 2023

Tertulias de Película: Lorena, la de pies ligeros / Lorena, Light-Footed Woman

Qué mejor plan para un viernes que ver una película en compañía y quedarse a charlar?  

Aprende sobre Lorena, una atleta mexicana que ha hecho historia por derribar estereotipos llevando orgullosa su cultura al resto del  mundo, y quédate a comer y charlar al final de la peli.

Event | November 17, 2023

Lane County Arts and Culture Roundtable

Join members of the Lane County community as they look toward the future by diving into stories of the past. Eva Osirusthe facilitator of the NAACP’s “Our Stories” project, in collaboration with the StoryHelix Community Storytelling Project at Wordcrafters in Eugene, will guide all participants in a group listening and discussion experience around the recorded story of a local storyteller. Through this guided conversation, attendees will gain new insights through story, connect with fellow community members, and identify actions they can take to better our community for all. Read more about this event. You may attend in person or virtually through Zoom.

This program is supported by a Public Program Grant from Oregon Humanities.

Event | November 13, 2023

Loneliness and Aging: Making Space for Our Elders

Loneliness and isolation are common experiences for elderly people, especially for those who do not have nearby family members or who are not computer literate. What do you know about the elders in your life or in your neighborhood? Are they connected to their families in an enriching way? Do they belong to a caring community of some kind? This conversation is for elderly people and people who live near elders or have elderly people in their lives to explore questions, experiences, and obstacles to showing up for elderly people and to generate ideas for connection.

RSVP for this free event.

Event | October 19, 2023

Loneliness and Aging: Making Space for Our Elders

Loneliness and isolation are common experiences for elderly people, especially for those who do not have nearby family members or who are not computer literate. What do you know about the elders in your life or in your neighborhood? Are they connected to their families in an enriching way? Do they belong to a caring community of some kind? This conversation is for elderly people and people who live near elders or have elderly people in their lives to explore questions, experiences, and obstacles to showing up for elderly people and to generate ideas for connection.

RSVP for this free event.

Event | October 19, 2023

Consider This on Getting Older and Staying Connected

Aging is a life-long experience that is both universal and different for everyone. Some people join new communities and friendships in old age, while others experience profound isolation. Generational divides, both real and perceived, can add to a sense of not belonging. Join Andrea Cano and Fred Grewe for a conversation about aging and belonging: What are our fears around aging? How can we collaborate across generational divides? What can we do to ensure people are fully included in our communities as they age?

Event | November 6, 2023

Loneliness and Aging: Making Space for Our Elders

Loneliness and isolation are common experiences for elderly people, especially for those who do not have nearby family members or who are not computer literate. What do you know about the elders in your life or in your neighborhood? Are they connected to their families in an enriching way? Do they belong to a caring community of some kind? This conversation is for elderly people and people who live near elders or have elderly people in their lives to explore questions, experiences, and obstacles to showing up for elderly people and to generate ideas for connection.

Register for this free event.

Event | November 8, 2023

Consider This with Eli Saslow

Join us for a conversation about about poverty and addiction in America with Eli Saslow, a national reporter for the New York Times who lives in Portland.

Tickets are $15 and are available on the Alberta Rose Theatre's website.

A limited number of free tickets are also available for this event. To request free tickets, please use this form.

Event | April 3, 2024

For the People

Jordan Hernandez writes about how Oregon libraries are responding to the evolving needs of their communities.

Magazine | August 25, 2023

Central Heating

Brian Benson reflects on loneliness, connection, and writing workshops.

Magazine | August 25, 2023

The Pains and Joys of Aging

An illustrated essay by Leanne Grabel

Beyond the Margins | July 26, 2023

Consider This with Father Greg Boyle

Join us for a conversation about community, belonging, and ending violence with Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries.

Event | March 13, 2024

Loneliness and Aging: Making Space for Our Elders

Loneliness and isolation are common experiences for elderly people, especially for those who do not have nearby family members or who are not computer literate. What do you know about the elders in your life or in your neighborhood? Are they connected to their families in an enriching way? Do they belong to a caring community of some kind? This conversation is for elderly people and people who live near elders or have elderly people in their lives to explore questions, experiences, and obstacles to showing up for elderly people and to generate ideas for connection.

Read more about this conversation and register here.

Event | June 27, 2023

Staged Frights: Banding Together around a Playful, Creative Cause

What happens when a community bands together around a playful, creative cause? In this workshop, Haunt Camp program director JR Rymut will share how a rural community can be a perfect and unexpected incubator of avant-garde art. 

Event | June 17, 2023

Create, Iterate, Persist: Connecting People to Actions and Actions to a Movement

Oregon Climate Action Hub was created to help all Oregonians find their place in the climate movement, serving as a “one-stop-shop” for individuals to find opportunities and take part in organized action. Join Karen Wolfgang, co-founder of the Hub, for a So Much Together where she will she discuss the project's development from a mere concept to a comprehensive public resource, and highlights the importance of relationships in the creative process. 

Event | May 10, 2023

Me, Myself, and Us: Evolving Identity Beyond Labels

As a multimedia artist, MOsley WOtta uses personal, lived experiences to drive his explorations into identity, place, race, and care. Through examples from his recent work, which incorporates musical, visual, and immersive performance with discussion and dialogue practices, WOtta will guide participants in exploring how identity labels both inform our relationship to our communities—and how it can transform them.

Event | May 27, 2023

Public Program Grant application deadline

Apply for a Public Program Grant by March 10

Event | March 10, 2023

“We Are the Original Conservationists”

Jennifer Perrine writes about Oregonians of color working in the environmental justice movement.

Magazine | January 9, 2023

Long Live the Kings

Heather Wiedenhoft on the political significance of drag king culture in the Pacific Northwest

Magazine | January 9, 2023

Strengthening Community and Connection through Storytelling

Bruce Poinsette and Jennifer Perrine talk about what it means to tell stories rooted in community.

Article | January 4, 2023

Conversation Project: Moving through Our Communities: How We Experience Safety and Vulnerability

Our sense of safety and vulnerability moving through our communities may be different if we are walking, biking, rolling, taking public transit, or driving. Join facilitator LeeAnn O’Neill in a conversation that asks, How does the way you move through your community affect your sense of safety and vulnerability? What else affects your sense of safety and vulnerability? How might you change the way you interact with others as you move through your community to create a greater sense of safety for everyone? This conversation is a chance to reflect on our personal roles in creating greater safety for all as we move through our communities.

RSVP for this program here.

Event | March 6, 2023

Conversation Project: Relationships for Resilience

In a time of intensifying social and ecological crises, in a cultural context of individualism, the pressure to practice "self-care," build "personal resilience," and "transform oneself" is pervasive. While "doing your own work" is important, we overemphasize the individual to the detriment of our human communities and the rest of the living world. The deep transformations we need will be cocreated, and the deep resilience we must develop will be relational. In this conversation, we will explore the dynamics of our strongest relationships, seeking to name the qualities and practices that underpin resilience. How can we bring our insights more intentionally and broadly to bear in our human relationships and in our relationships with our home—lands, waters, and ecosystems?

RSVP for this event here.

Event | March 9, 2023

Conversation Project: Understanding Urban/Rural Divides

We live in a time of increasing polarization that often correlates to divides between urban and rural regions in our state. This polarization is so extreme that it often seems like the two sides may have completely different experiences of the world. Join facilitator Nick Nash in a conversation that asks, How does the urban/rural divide affect the ways we relate to each other as Oregonians? What is the urban/rural divide, and how do we understand it? How does this divide affect our day-to-day lives, our experiences of being governed, and of the COVID-19 pandemic? This conversation is a chance to reflect on the beliefs we have about our urban or rural neighbors with a focus on discovering and abandoning misbeliefs, investigating and learning about the real differences between the urban and the rural, and trying to find things that we all share as Oregonians. This event will take place in room 214/215. Enter on the east side of the building facing the parking lot.

Event | September 20, 2022

Adaptation and Appreciation

Jacqueline Keeler writes about how tribal communities in Oregon may remember the COVID-19 pandemic.

Magazine | August 24, 2022

Telling Our Story

May Saechao writes about how the Iu Mien community connects to history and traditions across time and distance.

Magazine | August 24, 2022

We're Here for Each Other

Jennifer Perrine writes about how Oregonians of color are building relationships in the outdoors.

Beyond the Margins | July 8, 2022

The Civic Love Ride

Civic love has been described as "one’s love for society, expressed through a commitment to the common good. It is a belief in the idea that we’re all better off, when we are all better off." Join Oregon Humanities on a ride to various places where civic love blossomed, thrived, flailed, and failed. We will hear from people who demonstrate a commitment to civic love, including special guests from Albina Vision Trust, Street Books, Albina Music Trust, and North Star Civic Foundation.  Throughout the ride, we'll connect with each other utilizing the National Public Housing Museum's 36 Questions for Civic Love, which were created to help us all rise in civic love. Civic-love-themed prizes and tunes are sure to sweeten the deal.  We'll begin at Lovejoy Fountain Park, south of the SW 3rd and Harrison Portland Streetcar stop. The ride will last approximately two hours, including presentations and conversations, with about four miles of mostly flat traveling. We'll end at Dawson Park (1 N. Stanton St.) with an optional post-ride hangout.

Event | August 9, 2022

Finding a Voice as an Advocate for Others

Sosan Amiri and Rozzell Medina speak about power, justice, education, and community.

Beyond the Margins | June 10, 2022

Newport's Diverse Paths to an American Dream: Join the Conversation

The theme of this program is American Dreams, American Myths, American Hopes, which will provide framework to explore the origins and aspirations of Newport and how these have changed for different segments of our community, affecting us all. This program will be an opportunity for meaningful conversations and community engagement.

Read more about this program.

Event | May 19, 2022

Building a Bridge for Mental Health

A youth-led organization is addressing mental health in AAPI communities and offering cross-generational care.

Magazine | April 26, 2022

Tug-of-War

Medical care often requires isolating ourselves from those we love. But without them, how do we heal?

Magazine | April 26, 2022

Wit, Wisdom, and Fury: Collaborative Approaches to Community Wellness

In this So Much Together workshop, community activist and educator Darrell Wade will share how he came to found Black Men’s Wellness, a community-based initiative that addresses health concerns commonly affecting Black and African American men. Co-presented with Christopher Scott, a facilitator with Black Men’s Wellness and creator of the Hip Hop Social Worker podcast, this workshop will offer insights and perspectives on building community-based networks for health, while identifying the ways that collaboration and imagination inform this work.

Event | May 31, 2022

Conversation Project: Can We Get Along?

Rodney King’s iconic question still resonates today. Despite decades of social justice movements, police brutality and divisions persist in the United States. COVID-19 has only added more challenges. How can we connect to each other during these times? What holds us back from connecting with each other? How do our personal experiences contribute to barriers, or and have the potential to break them down? Join facilitator Chisao Hata as she holds space to examine individual questions on race, cultural values, and what brings us together and what separates us.

RSVP for this program.

Event | March 24, 2022

Conversation Project: Relationships for Resilience

In a time of intensifying social and ecological crises, in a cultural context of individualism, the pressure to practice "self-care," build "personal resilience," and "transform oneself" is pervasive. While "doing your own work" is important, we overemphasize the individual to the detriment of our human communities and the rest of the living world. The deep transformations we need will be cocreated, and the deep resilience we must develop will be relational. In this conversation, we will explore the dynamics of our strongest relationships, seeking to name the qualities and practices that underpin resilience. How can we bring our insights more intentionally and broadly to bear in our human relationships and in our relationships with our home—lands, waters, and ecosystems?

Event | March 3, 2022

The Skanner Foundation: Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast (virtual)

The Skanner Foundation again invites the community to share breakfast and celebrate the life, work, and vision of civil rights icon the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. with its 36th annual celebration the morning of January 17, 2022.

In past years, the breakfast has hosted more than a thousand attendees, often including the governor and both state and U.S. senators and representatives. Out of caution, the foundation has elected to hold its celebration on a virtual platform for a second year.

Event | January 17, 2022

World Arts Foundation: Keep Alive the Dream

On January 17, the World Arts Foundation will present Keep Alive the Dream, a film directed by Elijah Hasan that highlights pioneering activists, community leaders, artists, musicians, and youth whose valiant efforts have left lasting impacts in Oregon’s African American community. This event is made possible in part by a SHARP general operating support grant from Oregon Humanities.

The film will be screened at Portland’s historic Hollywood Theatre. In addition to the film, the program will feature live music and a Q&A with community members. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is required for entry. Admission is free. To read more about this event and reserve a ticket, visit hollywoodtheatre.org/events/keep-alive-the-dream.

Event | January 17, 2022

The Link Between Us: How Technology Can Create (and Impede) Opportunity

Join Caroline Gao for this So Much Together workshop, in which Caroline will share insights from her technological equity research; her journey building digital-first, youth-led organizations; and her lived experiences coming of age in a reality where access to technology means access to the world. As we consider the ways that technology serves as both a barrier to and a source of opportunity, especially for historically marginalized communities, we will look at how we might maximize technology's potential as a driver of equity and social good.

Event | February 23, 2022

Unstable Connections

Caroline Gao writes about the possibilities enabled by digital communications and the challenges of making these opportunities available to all.

Magazine | December 15, 2021

Climate and Fire

The Almeda Fire devastated my community. We can make future fires less destructive.

Beyond the Margins | November 19, 2021

Conversation Project: Can We Get Along?

Rodney King’s iconic question still resonates today. Despite decades of social justice movements, police brutality and divisions persist in the United States. COVID-19 has only added more challenges. How can we connect to each other during these times? What holds us back from connecting with each other? How do our personal experiences contribute to barriers, or and have the potential to break them down? Join facilitator Chisao Hata as she holds space to examine individual questions on race, cultural values, and what brings us together and what separates us. This Program is presented with Multnomah County Library as part of Everybody Reads 2022. Learn more at multcolib.org.

Event | February 15, 2022

Community Storytelling Fellowship

The Community Storytelling Fellowship supports storytellers working in any medium—written journalism, audio, video, comics, photography, and more—in sharing stories from communities they are part of.

Other Projects | November 2, 2021

Conversation Project: Relationships for Resilience

In a time of intensifying social and ecological crises, in a cultural context of individualism, the pressure to practice "self-care," build "personal resilience," and "transform oneself" is pervasive. While "doing your own work" is important, we overemphasize the individual to the detriment of our human communities and the rest of the living world. The deep transformations we need will be cocreated, and the deep resilience we must develop will be relational. In this conversation, we will explore the dynamics of our strongest relationships, seeking to name the qualities and practices that underpin resilience. How can we bring our insights more intentionally and broadly to bear in our human relationships and in our relationships with our home—lands, waters, and ecosystems?

Learn more about this event at crooklib.org.

Event | January 18, 2022

Sagebrush Solar

Juliet Grable writes about how Lake County is embracing renewable energy.

Magazine | August 19, 2021

Putting in the Work

This comic by Jonathan Hill explores how people can stay engaged in politics and advocate for the changes they want to see outside of major election cycles.

Magazine | August 12, 2021

Creating Joy, Art, and Social Change

Lincoln-City-based artist and musician Crystal Menseses writes about her experience as a 2019-21 Fields Artist Fellow.

Beyond the Margins | July 9, 2021

Connect in Place - Do You Remember? Why We Celebrate Anniversaries and Holidays

Memorials, holidays, and anniversaries are opportunities to tell stories about how we relate to what came before, and how that informs what we see as the work ahead. This time of year is full of anniversaries and holidays, including Stonewall, Juneteenth, Fourth of July, and the racial justice uprisings of last summer. What does it mean to commemorate, and why do we do it?

Event | June 29, 2021

Hidden Histories: Picturing the Past

Using the Oregon city of Jacksonville as a case study, this program will feature a presentation of its archaeology and history followed by a discussion highlighting the challenges, opportunities, and importance of researching and documenting the stories of early Chinese Americans.

Event | June 19, 2021

Loneliness and Aging During COVID-19

Most people are finding ways to remain connected to their loved ones during COVID-19. Some are even reaching new levels of intimacy in relationships. But for isolated elderly people who are not computer literate, loneliness has only become more intense over the past year. What beliefs do we hold about loneliness and aging? If we have elderly neighbors and loved ones, what might they need at this time?

Event | June 22, 2021

Loneliness and Aging During COVID-19

Most people are finding ways to remain connected to their loved ones during COVID-19. Some are even reaching new levels of intimacy in relationships. But for isolated elderly people who are not computer literate, loneliness has only become more intense over the past year. What beliefs do we hold about loneliness and aging? If we have elderly neighbors and loved ones, what might they need at this time?

Event | June 10, 2021

So Much Together: Us and Our Stuff

Frog & Toad Hauling is a junk removal and creative reuse service dedicated to seeing the treasure in trash. In this two-part workshop, we will explore through conversation, practice, and self-reflective, multimedia activities questions such as What is trash? How do we determine what does and doesn’t belong to us?

Event | June 7, 2021

So Much Together: Us and Our Stuff

Frog & Toad Hauling is a junk removal and creative reuse service dedicated to seeing the treasure in trash. In this two-part workshop, we will explore through conversation, practice, and self-reflective, multimedia activities questions such as What is trash? How do we determine what does and doesn’t belong to us?

Event | June 9, 2021

So Much Together - The People’s Park: Reclaiming Spaces for Our Communities

Lauren Everett is a Portland-based artist, community activist, and researcher. In 2020, Lauren led the creation of the People’s Park, a temporary community space created on a vacant lot in the St. Johns neighborhood. In this two-part workshop, she will share the story of how the park came about, framed by a discussion about the ideology of property in the United States. Participants will collaborate to design their own community spaces and learn some of the basic practical aspects of doing this kind of project.

Event | June 14, 2021

So Much Together - The People’s Park: Reclaiming Spaces for Our Communities

Lauren Everett is a Portland-based artist, community activist, and researcher. In 2020, Lauren led the creation of the People’s Park, a temporary community space created on a vacant lot in the St. Johns neighborhood. In this two-part workshop, she will share the story of how the park came about, framed by a discussion about the ideology of property in the United States. Participants will collaborate to design their own community spaces and learn some of the basic practical aspects of doing this kind of project.

Event | June 16, 2021

Charter Review

This comic by Beka Feathers and Aki Ruiz explains Portland's charter review process.

Beyond the Margins | April 29, 2021

Putting in the Work

This comic by Jonathan Hill explores how people can stay engaged in politics and advocate for the changes they want to see outside of major election cycles.

Beyond the Margins | April 29, 2021

Connect in Place: Emerging from Our Homes

Join facilitator LeeAnn O’Neill in this conversation that asks, How does the way you move through your community affect your sense of safety and vulnerability? What else affects your sense of safety and vulnerability? How might you change the way you interact with others as you move through your community to create a greater sense of safety for everyone?

Event | June 1, 2021

Connect In Place: Should Schools Reopen? Risk, Reward, and Making Decisions in Community

Schools in Oregon are in the process of bringing students back into physical classrooms after a full year of virtual learning for many. Join Aimee Craig in a reflective conversation that asks, How do you weigh risks and benefits? How do we make decisions as a community when risk is involved?

Event | April 6, 2021

Pandemic Flowers

Illustrator Mia Nolting reflects on a year of isolation through the dead flowers that have been in her house since the start of the pandemic.

Beyond the Margins | March 18, 2021

Connect in Place: What Does Democracy Require?

Join David Gutterman for a conversation about what democracy requires of us and for us in this fraught moment.

Event | March 23, 2021

Inheritance Stories: Oral Histories of Food Culture with Lola Milholland

Lola Milholland produces food-related art installations and events that bring together interactive public engagement with art making and food activism. In this workshop, Lola will share her work and ideas and guide participants in creating a cookbook together by interviewing and listening to each other.

Event | April 3, 2021

“We Know Who’s Got Our Six Now”

Bruce Poinsette considers the Father's Group, an intergenerational community group in Central Oregon, as an example for the future of Black-led organizing in Oregon.

Beyond the Margins | February 5, 2021

Connect in Place: The Meaning of Climate Change

We live in a time of tremendous transformation as the reality of climate change and its effects on our communities become more apparent with every passing year. What is the meaning of this extraordinary moment in human history? Portland State University instructor David Osborn leads a discussion exploring different meanings of climate change and how our understanding of meaning relates to action.

Event | January 26, 2021

Connect in Place: Bias and Kids

Most people agree that children need healthy, loving, supportive environments to thrive. But biases can affect how we interact with the children in our lives in ways we may not even realize. By reflecting on our biases, we can be more aware of how we impact children’s perceptions of themselves and others. During our conversation, we will reflect on how our biases—conscious and unconscious—related to gender, race, class, culture, and other traits shape everything from our subtle interactions with the kids we care for to the way we make political decisions that influence children in our society.

Event | February 9, 2021

From the Director: What It Means to Be Seen

Adam Davis on writing obituaries for family in the midst of a pandemic.

Magazine | December 17, 2020

Clicking

After moving back to Portland, Marbla Reed looks for connection in online event organizing, but finds creating community without the context of preexisting relationships more challenging than anticipated.

Magazine | December 17, 2020

Without a Towel

Dani Nichols writes about the lessons learned during a lifelong battle with water.

Beyond the Margins | November 13, 2020

I Dream an Oregon

Trying to get Oregonians to invest in antiracism left me frustrated and disillusioned. But I’m still pushing. An essay by Bruce Poinsette

Beyond the Margins | September 30, 2020

Connect in Place: What Just Happened? What Happens Next?

One week after election day, Adam Davis will facilitate an online community conversation about the results of federal, state, and local elections. This statewide conversation will focus less on the numbers than on the significance of these results for ourselves and our communities.

Event | November 10, 2020

Connect in Place: Losing Your Faith, Finding Your Footing

Join facilitator Lynn Otto in a conversation that asks, What happens when a shared foundation crumbles? Where do we nurture connection and meaning that is not specifically religious?

Event | September 8, 2020

Taking Up Space

Mareshah “MJ” Jackson writes about how the story of Blackness in the outdoors is more than a narrative of tragedy.

Magazine | August 25, 2020

The Family You Choose

Residents of Portland’s C3PO camps share their experiences of street life, the pandemic, and building a new community. By Olivia Wolf

Beyond the Margins | August 25, 2020

The Crowd Might Cover You

Recollections of finding anxiety, kindness, and community on the streets of Portland

Magazine | August 25, 2020

In These Uncertain Times

During the pandemic, Oregonians have been urged to “stay home, save lives.” But for many, staying home is not an option.

Magazine | August 24, 2020

Connect in Place: Music and Place

This project will dive into the role of music in shaping memories, communities, and place. Join facilitator Donovan Smith to explore music and place through an interactive discussion that will include reflections.

Event | August 25, 2020

Virtual Think & Drink with Kali Thorne Ladd, Alex Sager, and Paul Susi: What Are Schools for?

A live conversation on the purpose of school for students, parents, teachers, and the community at large. Watch the recording of this August 2020 program here.

Think & Drink | July 24, 2020

Safety, Justice, and Policing

A conversation with Nkenge Harmon Johnson, president and CEO of Urban League of Portland, and activist and data scientist Samuel Sinyangwe, cocreator of Police Scorecard and Mapping Police Violence.

Think & Drink | June 30, 2020

A Community of Recovery

Shadow Silvers writes about finding stability in a sober living house.

Beyond the Margins | June 29, 2020

Connect in Place: This Place Now

These are uncertain and undetermined times which call for, as Rebecca Solnit has written, “an imagination adequate to the possibilities and the strangeness and dangers on this earth in this moment.” How has where you are affected your experience of the pandemic? How have you seen yourself and your community adapt? What can you imagine recovery might look like? This virtual community conversation will connect Oregonians to reflect on our resilience, to compare notes about our experiences during this pandemic, to share and learn about the places we live, and to imagine what healing is needed for the places we share. This week’s conversations are for people living in the Central Oregon, Southern Oregon, and the Willamette Valley.

Event | June 9, 2020

What Is a Creative Priority? with MOsley WOtta

How can we justify painting a painting when we don’t know where our food is going to come from? What is our collective and personal obligation to creativity during a significant upheaval? Join MOsley WOtta for a conversation about getting creative during the apocalypse.

Event | June 2, 2020

The Case for Group Living

Lola Milholland writes about finding joy in the intimacy and solidarity of a crowded house.

Beyond the Margins | May 15, 2020

The Struggles That Unite Us

Eric K. Ward reflects on how the idea of the urban-rural divide only serves to separate us.

Magazine | April 27, 2020

Mask Makers

Photojournalist Katharine Kimball documents DIY efforts in Hood River to manufacture personal protective equipment to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beyond the Margins | April 1, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: Race and Adoption

The decision to adopt across racial or cultural lines is a lifelong commitment to exploring matters of race and identity, confronting racism in all its forms, and developing new skills and perspectives. In this conversation, facilitator Astrid Castro will ask participants to explore questions such as, What role do race and racism play in your family? What are the personal experiences that inform how you talk to adopted children in your life about where they are from? Where do you need to grow to be the best resource you can be for children who are adopted? While particularly of relevance to families directly in transracial adoptive families, this conversation will also raise questions of how we talk to children about important issues like race and identity, adoption, and cultural appropriation.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled to a later date.

Event | March 14, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Technology is often considered a cure-all to our modern challenges. It is, undeniably, a powerful tool in addressing our greatest endeavors. Whether it be automation, the iPhone, or gene editing, some say our technical capacities have outstripped our moral knowledge. Others believe they have provided us immense creativity in dealing with our biggest ethical questions. Are these mutually exclusive? Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | March 19, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader (held in Spanish)

*This conversation will be held in Spanish. Popular understandings of leadership tell us that leaders look a certain way: they are in charge. They possess outward strength. They are extroverted and act pragmatically rather than emotionally. Perhaps most important, leaders are people in positions of authority and power. Join facilitator Pepe Moscoso for a conversation that explores an alternative view of leadership and asks, When are we leaders in our communities? How can our unique senses of self contribute to our roles as leaders? What do we have to offer that is needed? Participants will have the chance to ask these questions of themselves and to explore with their friends and neighbors what makes a great leader in their communities. The admission fee for this conversation is $5.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | April 15, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader (held in Spanish)

*This conversation will be held in Spanish. Popular understandings of leadership tell us that leaders look a certain way: they are in charge. They possess outward strength. They are extroverted and act pragmatically rather than emotionally. Perhaps most important, leaders are people in positions of authority and power. Join facilitator Pepe Moscoso for a conversation that explores an alternative view of leadership and asks, When are we leaders in our communities? How can our unique senses of self contribute to our roles as leaders? What do we have to offer that is needed? Participants will have the chance to ask these questions of themselves and to explore with their friends and neighbors what makes a great leader in their communities.

This conversation has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | April 20, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: What Makes Oregon Hip Hop?

Hip hop is nothing if not adaptable. It is owned by everyone and no one. Its constant evolution has kept it at the forefront of both mainstream and underground cultural movements for decades. It has been adopted, co-opted, incorporated, stolen, appreciated, revered, feared, hated, and celebrated since its inception. If hip hop is everywhere, then where and how does it arise in Oregon? Join artist and educator Jason Graham to explore questions such as, Where is hip hop embraced in Oregon, where is it rejected? How is it received and perceived throughout the rural, urban, suburban communities in which we live? What effect has hip hop had on Oregon, and what impact has Oregon made on hip hop? This conversation may include some hands-on activities.

Event | March 19, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | April 18, 2020

From Saving to Serving to ...? : On Intervening in the Lives of Others

Many of us try to make a positive difference in the world through our work and volunteering, and we often find that this can be difficult. The language of helping reflects this difficulty. Charity sounds admirable to some and offensive to others. Service can be bland, saving can be paternalistic, and social entrepreneurship can feel corporate. Join Oregon Humanities Executive Director Adam Davis for a conversation that will explore why it’s so hard to find the right words for the good work we try to do in the world. How should we think and talk about our efforts to make positive change?

Event | February 15, 2020

How We Grow Old: Stories of Aging in Oregon and Beyond

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community.

Event | February 19, 2020

White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs. This conversation is open to and welcomes people of all racial backgrounds and identities.

Event | May 28, 2020

Beyond Invitation: How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion.

Event | March 5, 2020

Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Technology is often considered a cure-all to our modern challenges. It is, undeniably, a powerful tool in addressing our greatest endeavors. Whether it be automation, the iPhone, or gene editing, some say our technical capacities have outstripped our moral knowledge. Others believe they have provided us immense creativity in dealing with our biggest ethical questions. Are these mutually exclusive? Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

Event | March 11, 2020

CANCELED - The Space Between Us: Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | March 18, 2020

CANCELED - Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | March 21, 2020

CANCELED - The Meaning of Climate Change

We live in a time of tremendous transformation as the reality of climate change and its effects on our communities become more apparent with every passing year. While there is still much that can and must be done to mitigate the range of impacts climate change might have, we are confronting the certainty of a crisis that will continue to unfold no matter what we do. What is the meaning of this extraordinary moment in human history? The meanings we construct about climate change affect how we think about it, our feelings about it and our willingness to take action. Portland State University instructor David Osborn leads a discussion exploring different meanings of climate change and how our understanding of meaning relates to action.

This event has been postponed and may be rescheduled.

Event | April 21, 2020

CANCELED - Everyone Can Be a Leader: Exploring Nontraditional Community Leadership- English

Popular understandings of leadership tell us that leaders look a certain way: they are in charge. They possess outward strength. They are extroverted and act pragmatically rather than emotionally. Perhaps most important, leaders are people in positions of authority and power. Join facilitator Pepe Moscoso for a conversation that explores an alternative view of leadership and asks, When are we leaders in our communities? How can our unique senses of self contribute to our roles as leaders? What do we have to offer that is needed? Participants will have the chance to ask these questions of themselves and to explore with their friends and neighbors what makes a great leader in their communities.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | April 23, 2020

CANCELED - How We Grow Old: Stories of Aging in Oregon and Beyond

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | May 26, 2020

CANCELED - Live to Work or Work to Live?: Exploring What Makes a Job Good

Most adults spend most of their waking hours working. Yet, we rarely have the time to consider why certain work brings us satisfaction and other work does not. Do our jobs define our personal success? Are some jobs more valuable than others? How do jobs contribute to national success or failure? This conversation, led by historian Nikki Mandell, will engage participants in thinking about and discussing work more deeply. Participants will explore the quality and meanings of work in their own lives and those of people different from themselves and the connections between work as a personal endeavor and jobs as part of local and national economies. This conversation can be adapted to the needs and goals of the host organization and group of participants.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | May 27, 2020

CANCELED - Oregonians and the State’s Racist Past, Present, and Future

Oregon has a long history of racism that continues to influence the state today. While we often look at how the state’s racist history affects policies and institutions, we talk less about how it affects people’s personal understanding of racism and racist experiences. Join facilitator Tai Harden-Moore in a conversation that asks, What does Oregon’s racist past mean for Oregonians? How does the state’s history affect how bias shows up for individuals? This conversation will also look at how we can identify our own racial biases and work toward concrete ways to move forward as individuals and community.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | May 28, 2020

CANCELED - How We Grow Old: Stories of Aging in Oregon and Beyond

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | June 14, 2020

Oregonians and the State’s Racist Past, Present, and Future

Oregon has a long history of racism that continues to influence the state today. While we often look at how the state’s racist history affects policies and institutions, we talk less about how it affects people’s personal understanding of racism and racist experiences. Join facilitator Tai Harden-Moore in a conversation that asks, What does Oregon’s racist past mean for Oregonians? How does the state’s history affect how bias shows up for individuals? This conversation will also look at how we can identify our own racial biases and work toward concrete ways to move forward as individuals and community.

Event | February 17, 2020

White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs. This conversation is open to and welcomes people of all racial backgrounds and identities.

Event | February 5, 2020

Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Technology is often considered a cure-all to our modern challenges. It is, undeniably, a powerful tool in addressing our greatest endeavors. Whether it be automation, the iPhone, or gene editing, some say our technical capacities have outstripped our moral knowledge. Others believe they have provided us immense creativity in dealing with our biggest ethical questions. Are these mutually exclusive? Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

Event | February 6, 2020

Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | February 22, 2020

The Space Between Us: Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities. Admission Fee: $5 donation suggested

Event | February 18, 2020

Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | February 11, 2020

CANCELED - How We Grow Old: Stories of Aging in Oregon and Beyond

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | May 2, 2020

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs. This conversation is open to and welcomes people of all racial backgrounds and identities.

Event | January 9, 2020

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life. This event will take place in the Community Meeting Room.

Event | February 12, 2020

Conversation Project: Oregonians and the State’s Racist Past, Present, and Future

Oregon has a long history of racism that continues to influence the state today. While we often look at how the state’s racist history affects policies and institutions, we talk less about how it affects people’s personal understanding of racism and racist experiences. Join facilitator Tai Harden-Moore in a conversation that asks, What does Oregon’s racist past mean for Oregonians? How does the state’s history affect how bias shows up for individuals? This conversation will also look at how we can identify our own racial biases and work toward concrete ways to move forward as individuals and community. This event will take place in the Austin Room.

Event | February 11, 2020

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

Death is a universal event that transcends many of the differences between us, but it's not something that we have regular opportunities to think and talk about. Oregon Humanities developed the Talking about Dying program to create more public opportunities to reflect on the stories and influences that shape our thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members. Talking about Dying community conversations are free, ninety-minute facilitated discussions geared toward public audiences (ages 15+). During the program, participants talk together about questions such as: What do we want—and not want—at the end of our life? How might our family, culture, religion, and beliefs shape how we think about death? How do access to care, geography, and desires to be remembered affect our decisions about the end of our life? This event will take place in the Large Meeting Room and will be facilitated by Fred Grewe.

Event | January 21, 2020

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life. This event will take place in the Community Room.

Event | January 15, 2020

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

This conversation aims to bring people together to discuss the diverse experiences of belonging in Oregon. Challenging stereotypical visions of what it means to be an “Oregonian,” participants are asked to consider how being an Oregonian or part of the community looks different for all of us. Centered around participants’ unique identities, we will look inward and share how our race, gender and other identity markers shape our relationships to our community and the world around us. We will touch on Oregon’s founding racial exclusion laws, immigration trends and share how we can foster inclusion in our own lives.

Event | January 20, 2020

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Many Oregonians have a vision of a future that includes communities built on values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. At the same time, we live in a society that marginalizes and excludes people of color. Facilitators Traci Price and Anita Yap will lead participants in a conversation that looks at how Oregon’s history of racism influences our present and asks, How can understanding Oregon’s historic and current impacts of racism contribute to our sense of place and vision of the future? How can diversity and inclusion create thriving communities?

Event | January 20, 2020

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs. This conversation is open to and welcomes people of all racial backgrounds and identities.

Event | January 11, 2020

The State That Timber Built—2012

Tara Rae Miner considers what Oregon owes to the struggling timber communities that helped shape the state’s identity in this essay from the 2012 “Here” issue.

Magazine | December 23, 2019

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging is a life-long experience that is both universal and different for everyone. While most of us agree that people of different generations have wisdom to offer those who are ahead of or behind them in life’s journey, barriers to connection often persist between generations. Many of these barriers are rooted in our ideas about age and aging. Where do these ideas come from, and how do they impede or encourage relationships across generational differences? Independent scholars Jenny Sasser and Simeon Dreyfuss lead an open discussion about how we experience aging in community. How do we acknowledge both the universality of aging and the differences we experience? How do we create meaningful connections with others of different ages and life stages?

Event | December 7, 2019

Conversation Project: Oregonians and the State’s Racist Past, Present, and Future

Oregon has a long history of racism that continues to influence the state today. While we often look at how the state’s racist history affects policies and institutions, we talk less about how it affects people’s personal understanding of racism and racist experiences. Join facilitator Tai Harden-Moore in a conversation that asks, What does Oregon’s racist past mean for Oregonians? How does the state’s history affect how bias shows up for individuals? This conversation will also look at how we can identify our own racial biases and work toward concrete ways to move forward as individuals and community.

Event | January 9, 2020

Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | November 5, 2019

Canceled: Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Popular understandings of leadership tell us that leaders look a certain way: they are in charge. They possess outward strength. They are extroverted and act pragmatically rather than emotionally. Perhaps most important, leaders are people in positions of authority and power. Join facilitator Pepe Moscoso for a conversation that explores an alternative view of leadership and asks, When are we leaders in our communities? How can our unique senses of self contribute to our roles as leaders? What do we have to offer that is needed? Participants will have the chance to ask these questions of themselves and to explore with their friends and neighbors what makes a great leader in their communities.

Event | November 19, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs. This conversation is open to and welcomes people of all racial backgrounds and identities. This event will take place in the auditorium.

Event | March 4, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: What Are You?

The number of mixed-race people and interracial families in Oregon is growing. What are the challenges and benefits of growing up mixed-race, raising mixed-race children, or being an interracial couple in a state that’s historically been mostly white? How can we openly discuss our own ethnic and racial heritage with each other without being regarded as odd or unusual? How have the answers to “What are you?” changed through the decades? Dmae Roberts, who has written essays and produced film and radio documentaries about being a biracial Asian American in Oregon, leads a discussion of heritage that goes beyond checking one race on US Census forms. This conversation will take place at the PCC Rock Creek Event Center, Section A.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | April 15, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

This conversation aims to bring people together to discuss the diverse experiences of belonging in Oregon. Challenging stereotypical visions of what it means to be an “Oregonian,” participants are asked to consider how being an Oregonian or part of the community looks different for all of us. Centered around participant’s unique identities, we will look inward and share how our race, gender and other identity markers shape our relationships to our community and the world around us. We will touch on Oregon’s founding racial exclusion laws, immigration trends and share how we can foster inclusion in our own lives. This event will take place at the Multnomah Arts Center in room 30.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | May 4, 2020

CANCELED - Conversation Project: How We Grow Old

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community. The admission fee for this event is $5, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. This event will take place in the grange hall.

This event has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Event | May 13, 2020

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life. This event will take place in Meeting Room A.

Event | March 7, 2020

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion. This event will take place at the Multnomah Arts Center in room 30.

Event | February 20, 2020

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs. This conversation is open to and welcomes people of all racial backgrounds and identities. The event will begin at 5:00 p.m., and the conversation will begin at 5:45 p.m.

Event | January 20, 2020

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

Death is a universal event that transcends many of the differences between us, but it's not something that we have regular opportunities to think and talk about. Oregon Humanities developed the Talking about Dying program to create more public opportunities to reflect on the stories and influences that shape our thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members. Talking about Dying community conversations are free, ninety-minute facilitated discussions geared toward public audiences (ages 15+). During the program, participants talk together about questions such as: What do we want—and not want—at the end of our life? How might our family, culture, religion, and beliefs shape how we think about death? How do access to care, geography, and desires to be remembered affect our decisions about the end of our life?

Event | February 5, 2020

Conversation Project: Oregonians and the State’s Racist Past, Present, and Future

Oregon has a long history of racism that continues to influence the state today. While we often look at how the state’s racist history affects policies and institutions, we talk less about how it affects people’s personal understanding of racism and racist experiences. Join facilitator Tai Harden-Moore in a conversation that asks, What does Oregon’s racist past mean for Oregonians? How does the state’s history affect how bias shows up for individuals? This conversation will also look at how we can identify our own racial biases and work toward concrete ways to move forward as individuals and community. This conversation will take place in the auditorium.

Event | February 6, 2020

Conversation Project: The Meaning of Climate Change

We live in a time of tremendous transformation as the reality of climate change and its effects on our communities become more apparent with every passing year. While there is still much that can and must be done to mitigate the range of impacts climate change might have, we are confronting the certainty of a crisis that will continue to unfold no matter what we do. What is the meaning of this extraordinary moment in human history? The meanings we construct about climate change affect how we think about it, our feelings about it and our willingness to take action. Portland State University instructor David Osborn leads a discussion exploring different meanings of climate change and how our understanding of meaning relates to action. This event will take place in the Grange Hall. The admission fee is $5.

Event | January 23, 2020

Conversation Project: What Are You?

The number of mixed-race people and interracial families in Oregon is growing. What are the challenges and benefits of growing up mixed-race, raising mixed-race children, or being an interracial couple in a state that’s historically been mostly white? How can we openly discuss our own ethnic and racial heritage with each other without being regarded as odd or unusual? How have the answers to “What are you?” changed through the decades? Dmae Roberts, who has written essays and produced film and radio documentaries about being a biracial Asian American in Oregon, leads a discussion of heritage that goes beyond checking one race on US Census forms. This event will take place in the Education Room.

Event | November 1, 2019

Conversation Project: The Hate We Live In

We live and work among systems that were built on racism. Even people who believe in and work for racial equity are immersed in a culture that silently supports structural oppression, especially anti-Black racism. What does it mean for us as individuals to live and breathe these values from the time we are born? How do we start to see and address our own personal biases? Join facilitator Tyler White for a conversation that will help participants recognize oppression of all kinds and provide tools to combat hate by calling out the injustices present in everyday life. This event will take place at the Riverside Campus in HEC129.

Event | October 14, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | November 2, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life. This event will take place in the Sprague Room.

Event | November 6, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs. This conversation is open to and welcomes people of all racial backgrounds and identities. This event will take place in the Lee Conference Room.

Event | November 6, 2019

Conversation Project: The Hate We Live In

We live and work among systems that were built on racism. Even people who believe in and work for racial equity are immersed in a culture that silently supports structural oppression, especially anti-Black racism. What does it mean for us as individuals to live and breathe these values from the time we are born? How do we start to see and address our own personal biases? Join facilitator Tyler White for a conversation that will help participants recognize oppression of all kinds and provide tools to combat hate by calling out the injustices present in everyday life. This event will take place at the Redwood Campus Student Center.

Event | October 14, 2019

The Summer Games

Jennie Hartsock shares her search for community in Corvallis and how a game helped her find her friends.

Beyond the Margins | September 30, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation with Jennifer Burns Bright investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life. This event will take place in the Flora Room.

Event | October 26, 2019

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Studies show that neighbors interact much less than in previous decades. This has been theorized as a kind of side effect of modern life and the result of technology, limits on attention, and in some instances, differences in cultural concepts of what it means to be neighborly. Join facilitator Jen Mitas in this conversation that asks, How do you interact with your neighbors? How do you feel about those relationships? How might you improve or change these relationships in order to make a positive impact on the places you live? This conversation is a chance to reflect on one’s own role in the social networks that make up the places we live, and to complicate clichés about neighborliness that may be unconsciously rooted in the mid-twentieth century ideal of the American suburb. This event will take place in the Community Room, on the main floor of the library. RSVPs requested, email Terrie at: terriev1211@gmail.com

Event | October 26, 2019

Conversation Project: Live to Work or Work to Live?

Most adults spend most of their waking hours working. Yet, we rarely have the time to consider why certain work brings us satisfaction and other work does not. Do our jobs define our personal success? Are some jobs more valuable than others? How do jobs contribute to national success or failure? This conversation, led by historian Nikki Mandell, will engage participants in thinking about and discussing work more deeply. Participants will explore the quality and meanings of work in their own lives and those of people different from themselves and the connections between work as a personal endeavor and jobs as part of local and national economies. This conversation can be adapted to the needs and goals of the host organization and group of participants.

Event | September 10, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Many Oregonians have a vision of a future that includes communities built on values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. At the same time, we live in a society that marginalizes and excludes people of color. Facilitators Traci Price and Anita Yap will lead participants in a conversation that looks at how Oregon’s history of racism influences our present and asks, How can understanding Oregon’s historic and current impacts of racism contribute to our sense of place and vision of the future? How can diversity and inclusion create thriving communities?

Event | October 2, 2019

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion.

Event | August 6, 2019

Conversation Project: What Makes Oregon Hip Hop?

Hip hop is nothing if not adaptable. It is owned by everyone and no one. Its constant evolution has kept it at the forefront of both mainstream and underground cultural movements for decades. It has been adopted, co-opted, incorporated, stolen, appreciated, revered, feared, hated, and celebrated since its inception. If hip hop is everywhere, then where and how does it arise in Oregon? Join artist and educator Jason Graham to explore questions such as, Where is hip hop embraced in Oregon, where is it rejected? How is it received and perceived throughout the rural, urban, suburban communities in which we live? What effect has hip hop had on Oregon, and what impact has Oregon made on hip hop? This conversation may include some hands-on activities.

Event | July 27, 2019

Conversation Project: How We Grow Old

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community.

Event | October 23, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities.

Event | September 25, 2019

Across the Divide

Andie Madsen interviews three Oregonians who grew up in rural areas and moved to Portland about their relationships to their rural identities.

Beyond the Margins | June 27, 2019

Cover Songs of Myself

Jason Arias on "Smells Like Teen Spirit" and the different versions of ourselves.

Beyond the Margins | June 14, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit, rural communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs.

Event | August 5, 2019

Conversation Project: Where Are Queer People Welcome?

A majority of Americans now accept gay and lesbian relationships, but the queer population is made up of a diversity of communities and experiences. Are all queer people accepted, tolerated, and embraced everywhere? Where are we made to feel welcome? Where do we feel unwelcome and unsafe? How do race, language, gender identity, family structure, faith, where we work, and where we live shape how we are seen, welcomed, and accepted? Join facilitator Jill Winsor in a discussion that explores how the complexity of the queer community intersects with the spaces and communities that surround us.

Event | July 15, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | July 24, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Adoption

The decision to adopt across racial or cultural lines is a lifelong commitment to exploring matters of race and identity, confronting racism in all its forms, and developing new skills and perspectives. In this conversation, facilitator Astrid Castro will ask participants to explore questions such as, What role do race and racism play in your family? What are the personal experiences that inform how you talk to adopted children in your life about where they are from? Where do you need to grow to be the best resource you can be for children who are adopted? While particularly of relevance to families directly in transracial adoptive families, this conversation will also raise questions of how we talk to children about important issues like race and identity, adoption, and cultural appropriation.

Event | June 14, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities. A $5 donation is suggested. No person will be turned away for lack of funds.

Event | June 18, 2019

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

Death is a universal event that transcends many of the differences between us, but it's not something that we have regular opportunities to think and talk about. Oregon Humanities developed the Talking about Dying program to create more public opportunities to reflect on the stories and influences that shape our thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members. Talking about Dying community conversations are free, ninety-minute facilitated discussions geared toward public audiences (ages 15+). During the program, participants talk together about questions such as: What do we want—and not want—at the end of our life? How might our family, culture, religion, and beliefs shape how we think about death? How do access to care, geography, and desires to be remembered affect our decisions about the end of our life?

Event | June 27, 2019

Conversation Project: How We Grow Old

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community.

Event | July 10, 2019

Conversation Project: Oregonians and the State’s Racist Past, Present, and Future

Oregon has a long history of racism that continues to influence the state today. While we often look at how the state’s racist history affects policies and institutions, we talk less about how it affects people’s personal understanding of racism and racist experiences. Join facilitator Tai Harden-Moore in a conversation that asks, What does Oregon’s racist past mean for Oregonians? How does the state’s history affect how bias shows up for individuals? This conversation will also look at how we can identify our own racial biases and work toward concrete ways to move forward as individuals and community.

Event | June 22, 2019

Conversation Project: Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Technology is often considered a cure-all to our modern challenges. It is, undeniably, a powerful tool in addressing our greatest endeavors. Whether it be automation, the iPhone, or gene editing, some say our technical capacities have outstripped our moral knowledge. Others believe they have provided us immense creativity in dealing with our biggest ethical questions. Are these mutually exclusive? Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

Event | April 30, 2019

Conversation Project: Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Technology is often considered a cure-all to our modern challenges. It is, undeniably, a powerful tool in addressing our greatest endeavors. Whether it be automation, the iPhone, or gene editing, some say our technical capacities have outstripped our moral knowledge. Others believe they have provided us immense creativity in dealing with our biggest ethical questions. Are these mutually exclusive? Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

Event | May 1, 2019

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Studies show that neighbors interact much less than in previous decades. This has been theorized as a kind of side effect of modern life and the result of technology, limits on attention, and in some instances, differences in cultural concepts of what it means to be neighborly. Join facilitator Jen Mitas in this conversation that asks, How do you interact with your neighbors? How do you feel about those relationships? How might you improve or change these relationships in order to make a positive impact on the places you live? This conversation is a chance to reflect on one’s own role in the social networks that make up the places we live, and to complicate clichés about neighborliness that may be unconsciously rooted in the mid-twentieth century ideal of the American suburb. To RSVP, please email: piera@albertagrocery.coop.

Event | May 4, 2019

Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Popular understandings of leadership tell us that leaders look a certain way: they are in charge. They possess outward strength. They are extroverted and act pragmatically rather than emotionally. Perhaps most important, leaders are people in positions of authority and power. Join facilitator Pepe Moscoso for a conversation that explores an alternative view of leadership and asks, When are we leaders in our communities? How can our unique senses of self contribute to our roles as leaders? What do we have to offer that is needed? Participants will have the chance to ask these questions of themselves and to explore with their friends and neighbors what makes a great leader in their communities.

Event | May 9, 2019

Conversation Project: Where Are Queer People Welcome?

A majority of Americans now accept gay and lesbian relationships, but the queer population is made up of a diversity of communities and experiences. Are all queer people accepted, tolerated, and embraced everywhere? Where are we made to feel welcome? Where do we feel unwelcome and unsafe? How do race, language, gender identity, family structure, faith, where we work, and where we live shape how we are seen, welcomed, and accepted? Join facilitator Jill Winsor in a discussion that explores how the complexity of the queer community intersects with the spaces and communities that surround us.

Event | May 20, 2019

Conversation Project: Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Technology is often considered a cure-all to our modern challenges. It is, undeniably, a powerful tool in addressing our greatest endeavors. Whether it be automation, the iPhone, or gene editing, some say our technical capacities have outstripped our moral knowledge. Others believe they have provided us immense creativity in dealing with our biggest ethical questions. Are these mutually exclusive? Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another. This event will take place in the board room at Portland Public Schools' main office.

Event | May 20, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities.

Event | April 17, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities.

Event | April 17, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | May 28, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities.

Event | April 16, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Adoption

The decision to adopt across racial or cultural lines is a lifelong commitment to exploring matters of race and identity, confronting racism in all its forms, and developing new skills and perspectives. In this conversation, facilitator Astrid Castro will ask participants to explore questions such as, What role do race and racism play in your family? What are the personal experiences that inform how you talk to adopted children in your life about where they are from? Where do you need to grow to be the best resource you can be for children who are adopted? While particularly of relevance to families directly in transracial adoptive families, this conversation will also raise questions of how we talk to children about important issues like race and identity, adoption, and cultural appropriation. This event will take place in the Community Room.

Event | May 11, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | May 1, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit, rural communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs.

Event | April 20, 2019

Conversation Project: Sharing Our Lives with Animals

Whether we find ourselves on farms or ranches, in cities, or in other places between, our lives are entangled with the lives of other species. Our experiences with domestic animals—in particular those considered pets or livestock—affect the ways we understand relationships with them, who we value and depend upon in wildly different ways. As scientific research and broader cultural shifts challenge common notions about the intelligence and emotional lives of other beings, we face complex quandaries of how to respectfully recognize and care for the needs of domestic companions. For this conversation, artist and educator Karin Bolender Hart invites us to share our own animal stories, consider how our personal experiences and beliefs about the lives of animals shape the stories we tell, and reflect on how these stories in turn affect our choices as caretakers, farmers, consumers, and companions.

Event | April 27, 2019

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion. This event will take place in Columbia Room 102.

Event | March 27, 2019

Conversation Project: Where Are Queer People Welcome?

A majority of Americans now accept gay and lesbian relationships, but the queer population is made up of a diversity of communities and experiences. Are all queer people accepted, tolerated, and embraced everywhere? Where are we made to feel welcome? Where do we feel unwelcome and unsafe? How do race, language, gender identity, family structure, faith, where we work, and where we live shape how we are seen, welcomed, and accepted? Join facilitator Jill Winsor in a discussion that explores how the complexity of the queer community intersects with the spaces and communities that surround us. This event will take place in the Keeston Room.

Event | June 27, 2019

Conversation Project: The Meaning of Climate Change

We live in a time of tremendous transformation as the reality of climate change and its effects on our communities become more apparent with every passing year. While there is still much that can and must be done to mitigate the range of impacts climate change might have, we are confronting the certainty of a crisis that will continue to unfold no matter what we do. What is the meaning of this extraordinary moment in human history? The meanings we construct about climate change affect how we think about it, our feelings about it and our willingness to take action. Portland State University instructor David Osborn leads a discussion exploring different meanings of climate change and how our understanding of meaning relates to action. Admission Fee: $5

Event | July 12, 2019

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion.

Event | June 13, 2019

Conversation Project: The Hate We Live In

We live and work among systems that were built on racism. Even people who believe in and work for racial equity are immersed in a culture that silently supports structural oppression, especially anti-Black racism. What does it mean for us as individuals to live and breathe these values from the time we are born? How do we start to see and address our own personal biases? Join facilitator Tyler White for a conversation that will help participants recognize oppression of all kinds and provide tools to combat hate by calling out the injustices present in everyday life.

Event | May 29, 2019

Conversation Project: The Meaning of Climate Change

We live in a time of tremendous transformation as the reality of climate change and its effects on our communities become more apparent with every passing year. While there is still much that can and must be done to mitigate the range of impacts climate change might have, we are confronting the certainty of a crisis that will continue to unfold no matter what we do. What is the meaning of this extraordinary moment in human history? The meanings we construct about climate change affect how we think about it, our feelings about it and our willingness to take action. Portland State University instructor David Osborn leads a discussion exploring different meanings of climate change and how our understanding of meaning relates to action.

Event | May 21, 2019

Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Popular understandings of leadership tell us that leaders look a certain way: they are in charge. They possess outward strength. They are extroverted and act pragmatically rather than emotionally. Perhaps most important, leaders are people in positions of authority and power. Join facilitator Pepe Moscoso for a conversation that explores an alternative view of leadership and asks, When are we leaders in our communities? How can our unique senses of self contribute to our roles as leaders? What do we have to offer that is needed? Participants will have the chance to ask these questions of themselves and to explore with their friends and neighbors what makes a great leader in their communities.

Event | May 15, 2019

Conversation Project: The Meaning of Climate Change

We live in a time of tremendous transformation as the reality of climate change and its effects on our communities become more apparent with every passing year. While there is still much that can and must be done to mitigate the range of impacts climate change might have, we are confronting the certainty of a crisis that will continue to unfold no matter what we do. What is the meaning of this extraordinary moment in human history? The meanings we construct about climate change affect how we think about it, our feelings about it and our willingness to take action. Portland State University instructor David Osborn leads a discussion exploring different meanings of climate change and how our understanding of meaning relates to action.

Event | May 15, 2019

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion.

Event | May 2, 2019

Conversation Project: Listening to Young People

What does it look like when adults really listen to young people? Cultural beliefs about young people perpetuate myths that cause harm, especially when combined with laws that control their physical and emotional autonomy and limit their ability to participate in public life. Young people experiencing marginalization for any reason—race, gender, sexuality, ability—also have the added layer of not being taken seriously because of their age. And yet the history of social justice movements in the United States is deeply connected to young people’s agency, autonomy, and power. Join facilitator Emily Squires for a conversation that asks folks to explore their own beliefs about what it means to be young and to reflect on their individual relationship to power as it relates to age.

Event | May 1, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Adoption

The decision to adopt across racial or cultural lines is a lifelong commitment to exploring matters of race and identity, confronting racism in all its forms, and developing new skills and perspectives. In this conversation, facilitator Astrid Castro will ask participants to explore questions such as, What role do race and racism play in your family? What are the personal experiences that inform how you talk to adopted children in your life about where they are from? Where do you need to grow to be the best resource you can be for children who are adopted? While particularly of relevance to families directly in transracial adoptive families, this conversation will also raise questions of how we talk to children about important issues like race and identity, adoption, and cultural appropriation.

Event | April 18, 2019

Airlie Poetry Night

Airlie Press, a nonprofit publisher, is hosting a free, public, open poetry event at Devil's Den Wine Bar in the Alberta Arts District as part of the Association of Writers and Publishers (AWP) conference. This event is family-friendly, all-ages, and open to anyone interested in reading their work. The event will also featured notable local writers.

Event | March 29, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit, rural communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs.

Event | March 22, 2019

Conversation Project: Sharing Our Lives with Animals

Whether we find ourselves on farms or ranches, in cities, or in other places between, our lives are entangled with the lives of other species. Our experiences with domestic animals—in particular those considered pets or livestock—affect the ways we understand relationships with them, who we value and depend upon in wildly different ways. As scientific research and broader cultural shifts challenge common notions about the intelligence and emotional lives of other beings, we face complex quandaries of how to respectfully recognize and care for the needs of domestic companions. For this conversation, artist and educator Karin Bolender Hart invites us to share our own animal stories, consider how our personal experiences and beliefs about the lives of animals shape the stories we tell, and reflect on how these stories in turn affect our choices as caretakers, farmers, consumers, and companions.

Event | March 14, 2019

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion. RSVP: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSctPXs1pMbZlDuVK5qCaZfYOX1cb2GG9oqXQ3Oe_WWi7wGxhA/viewform

Event | May 7, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | June 4, 2019

Conversation Project: What Are You? Mixed-Race and Interracial Families in Oregon’s Past and Future

The number of mixed-race people and interracial families in Oregon is growing. What are the challenges and benefits of growing up mixed-race, raising mixed-race children, or being an interracial couple in a state that’s historically been mostly white? How can we openly discuss our own ethnic and racial heritage with each other without being regarded as odd or unusual? How have the answers to “What are you?” changed through the decades? Dmae Roberts, who has written essays and produced film and radio documentaries about being a biracial Asian American in Oregon, leads a discussion of heritage that goes beyond checking one race on US Census forms.

Event | April 19, 2019

Conversation Project: Showing Up

Being part of a community is an essential need for all of us. It is a place where we find others who share common ground, where our values and identities are reflected. Community is also a place where we are supported and thrive. Join facilitator Chi Mei Tam in this conversation to explore what it means to be part of a community. What does it looks like when community shows up for you and vice versa? How does it work? To what extent are shared values and identities in our community enough or not enough to help us thrive?

Event | March 9, 2019

Conversation Project: Exploring Power and Privilege with Courage, Creativity, and Compassion

As individuals and groups, we experience different levels of privilege and power. Recognizing our relationship to oppression can bring feelings of guilt, shame, and grief. How can we hold space for these feelings while also creating conditions for new insights to emerge to deepen our understanding of each other and ourselves? Join facilitator Ridhi D’Cruz for a conversation that explores how we face and transform oppression in our everyday lives. This conversation will include some hands-on activities.

Event | March 6, 2019

Conversation Project: Exploring Power and Privilege with Courage, Creativity, and Compassion

Join facilitator Ridhi D’Cruz for a conversation that explores how we face and transform oppression in our everyday lives.

Event | March 6, 2019

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

How Relationships Affect the Places We Live

Event | March 19, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Global displacement is on the rise, thanks to intractable conflicts, economics, and climate change. Oregonians have and will continue to see the results of international migration in our neighborhoods. In this conversation, Manuel Padilla, who has worked with refugees in Haiti, Chad, and Washington, DC, asks participants to consider questions of uprootedness, hospitality, identity, perception, and integration and how we might build more informed, responsive, resilient, and vibrant communities.

Event | March 6, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities.

Event | February 15, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Adoption

In this conversation, facilitator Astrid Castro will ask participants to explore questions such as, What role do race and racism play in your family?

Event | February 19, 2019

Conversation Project: In Good Faith

Exploring Religious Difference in Oregon

Event | February 24, 2019

Returned

Caitlyn May covers the complicated story behind the closure of Douglas County's libraries and their difficult paths to reopening sustainably.

Beyond the Margins | January 31, 2019

Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Exploring Nontraditional Community Leadership

Event | February 16, 2019

Conversation Project: How We Grow Old

Stories of Aging in Oregon and Beyond

Event | January 25, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | February 8, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Self-sufficiency and American Life

Event | January 9, 2019

Conversation Project: The Meaning of Climate Change

Portland State University instructor David Osborn leads a discussion exploring different meanings of climate change and how our understanding of meaning relates to action.

Event | January 15, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Event | January 25, 2019

Conversation Project: The Hate We Live In

Join facilitator Tyler White for a conversation that will help participants recognize oppression of all kinds and provide tools to combat hate by calling out the injustices present in everyday life.

Event | January 15, 2019

More than Words

Emilly Prado explores the stories of three families in the small rural border town of Nyssa, Oregon, and how immigration policy changes have affected their lives.

This Land | December 20, 2018

Conversation Project: How We Grow Old

Stories of Aging in Oregon and Beyond

Event | January 26, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | February 4, 2019

Conversation Project: Race and Adoption

In this conversation, facilitator Astrid Castro will ask participants to explore questions such as, What role do race and racism play in your family? What are the personal experiences that inform how you talk to adopted children in your life about where they are from? Where do you need to grow to be the best resource you can be for children who are adopted?

Event | January 27, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Self-sufficiency and American Life

Event | February 7, 2019

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

How Relationships Affect the Places We Live

Event | February 8, 2019

CANCELED: Conversation Project: How We Grow Old

Stories of Aging in Oregon and Beyond

Event | February 10, 2019

CANCELED: Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Event | February 10, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Self-sufficiency and American Life

Event | March 1, 2019

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion.

Event | March 10, 2019

Conversation Project: What Are You? Mixed-Race and Interracial Families in Oregon’s Past and Future

The number of mixed-race people and interracial families in Oregon is growing. What are the challenges and benefits of growing up mixed-race, raising mixed-race children, or being an interracial couple in a state that’s historically been mostly white? How can we openly discuss our own ethnic and racial heritage with each other without being regarded as odd or unusual? How have the answers to “What are you?” changed through the decades? Dmae Roberts, who has written essays and produced film and radio documentaries about being a biracial Asian American in Oregon, leads a discussion of heritage that goes beyond checking one race on US Census forms.

Event | March 10, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | March 25, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | March 26, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit, rural communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs.

Event | March 28, 2019

From the Director: We the People

Executive Director Adam Davis on who we are as a nation, who our communities are, and how we know where we belong.

Magazine | December 19, 2018

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Studies show that neighbors interact much less than in previous decades. This has been theorized as a kind of side effect of modern life and the result of technology, limits on attention, and in some instances, differences in cultural concepts of what it means to be neighborly. Join facilitator Jen Mitas in this conversation that asks, How do you interact with your neighbors? How do you feel about those relationships? How might you improve or change these relationships in order to make a positive impact on the places you live? This conversation is a chance to reflect on one’s own role in the social networks that make up the places we live, and to complicate clichés about neighborliness that may be unconsciously rooted in the mid-twentieth century ideal of the American suburb.

Event | April 11, 2019

Conversation Project: How We Grow Old

What are the stories that shape how we think about growing old? How do we acknowledge the unique differences among aging individuals and separate the true stories from the myths? How do we accept the wisdom of our elders’ experiences while also recognizing new ideas about what it means to age in America? No matter our age, we all hear and tell stories about growing older that reflect our own ideals and fears—and the ideals and fears of our communities. Join facilitator Melissa Madenski as we look at the power of story in a conversation that will ask you to share your own experiences and ideas about aging and listen to the perspectives of others in your community.

Event | April 13, 2019

Conversation Project: Listening to Young People

What does it look like when adults really listen to young people? Cultural beliefs about young people perpetuate myths that cause harm, especially when combined with laws that control their physical and emotional autonomy and limit their ability to participate in public life. Young people experiencing marginalization for any reason—race, gender, sexuality, ability—also have the added layer of not being taken seriously because of their age. And yet the history of social justice movements in the United States is deeply connected to young people’s agency, autonomy, and power. Join facilitator Emily Squires for a conversation that asks folks to explore their own beliefs about what it means to be young and to reflect on their individual relationship to power as it relates to age. This event will take place in the Wilson High School Library

Event | April 18, 2019

Conversation Project: Where Are Queer People Welcome?

A majority of Americans now accept gay and lesbian relationships, but the queer population is made up of a diversity of communities and experiences. Are all queer people accepted, tolerated, and embraced everywhere? Where are we made to feel welcome? Where do we feel unwelcome and unsafe? How do race, language, gender identity, family structure, faith, where we work, and where we live shape how we are seen, welcomed, and accepted? Join facilitator Jill Winsor in a discussion that explores how the complexity of the queer community intersects with the spaces and communities that surround us.

Event | April 18, 2019

Conversation Project: Talking About Dying

Death is a universal event that transcends many of the differences between us, but it's not something that we have regular opportunities to think and talk about. Oregon Humanities developed the Talking about Dying program to create more public opportunities to reflect on the stories and influences that shape our thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members. Talking about Dying community conversations are free, ninety-minute facilitated discussions geared toward public audiences (ages 15+). During the program, participants talk together about questions such as, What do we want—and not want—at the end of our life? How might our family, culture, religion, and beliefs shape how we think about death? How do access to care, geography, and desires to be remembered affect our decisions about the end of our life? Facilitated by Andrea Cano.

Event | May 2, 2019

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

In 2015, Oregon’s population exceeded 4 million people. Not only are we growing in number, we’re also changing demographically. Considering that Oregon has a history of racial exclusion, these changes prompt questions about Oregonian identity and values. How do we build communities that welcome people of all backgrounds? How are minority and under-represented populations included and treated today? Drawing on the diverse histories and backgrounds of attendees, Kerani Mitchell leads a conversation that asks what makes us Oregonian and how can we create inclusive communities.

Event | May 9, 2019

Listening over Litigation

The High Desert Partnership provides a collaborative vision for Harney County.

Magazine | December 13, 2018

Engagement and Environment

OPAL seeks to bring more voices into conversations about environmental justice.

Magazine | December 13, 2018

Supporting Urgent Conversations

Responsive Program Grants help communities across Oregon respond to pressing issues and events.

Magazine | December 13, 2018

New Foundations

Samantha Bakall writes about an innovative pilot project that pairs families in need of housing with Portland homeowners who have a little land to spare.

Magazine | December 13, 2018

Peace and Dignity

Mohamed Asem writes about finding community in shared stories of unjust detention in an excerpt from his memoir, Stranger in the Pen.

Magazine | December 13, 2018

Bias and Kids: How Do Our Prejudices Affect Our Children?

During our conversation led by Verónika Nuñez and Kyrié Kellett, we will reflect on how our biases—conscious and unconscious—related to gender, race, class, culture, and other traits, shape everything from our subtle interactions with the kids we care for to the way we make political decisions that influence children in our society.

Event | December 11, 2018

Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before.

Event | December 11, 2018

Conversation Project: In Good Faith

Religion is a topic traditionally not discussed in mixed company. But what do we lose when we avoid exploring our religious differences? Oregon is among the states in the US where people are most likely to identify as religiously unaffiliated. Many Oregonians have spiritual practices that both align with and transcend institutional definitions. Others filter strongly held values through religious traditions and frameworks. Writer and former chaplain Elizabeth Harlan-Ferlo will lead participants in examining the tools we use to talk about religion without dismissing others’ beliefs or flattening the beautiful and sometimes harrowing complexities of our experiences. At the host’s request, this conversation may be customized to fit the specific needs of their community.

Event | March 4, 2019

Conversation Project: Bias and Kids

Most people agree that children need healthy, loving, supportive environments to thrive. But, as parents, family members, teachers, neighbors, and voters—how do our biases influence how we interact with the children in our lives and communities? And, how do those biases influence how children perceive themselves and what they will become? During our conversation led by Verónika Nuñez and Kyrié Kellett, we will reflect on how our biases—conscious and unconscious—related to gender, race, class, culture, and other traits, shape everything from our subtle interactions with the kids we care for to the way we make political decisions that influence children in our society.

Event | March 15, 2019

Conversation Project: What We Owe

Debt has bound people together and driven them apart for millennia. Oppressive debt has played a role in major social revolutions that have resulted in the clearing of debt records, yet there are other debts, like the cost of being born, for which many could not imagine demanding repayment. In the past ten years, US national debt and personal debt have reached all-time highs—levels at which full repayment may seem implausible. But is repayment even necessary? Join educator April Slabosheski in a conversation that asks, What constitutes debt? How does debt shape the way we relate to one another? How do we decide which debts we will repay, and which we will not?

Event | April 11, 2019

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

Studies show that neighbors interact much less than in previous decades. This has been theorized as a kind of side effect of modern life and the result of technology, limits on attention, and in some instances, differences in cultural concepts of what it means to be neighborly. Join facilitator Jen Mitas in this conversation that asks, How do you interact with your neighbors? How do you feel about those relationships? How might you improve or change these relationships in order to make a positive impact on the places you live? This conversation is a chance to reflect on one’s own role in the social networks that make up the places we live, and to complicate clichés about neighborliness that may be unconsciously rooted in the mid-twentieth century ideal of the American suburb. RSVP to this event here.

Event | May 14, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Event | January 23, 2019

Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Exploring Nontraditional Community Leadership

Event | January 28, 2019

Conversation Project: Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

Event | January 30, 2019

Conversation Project: What Makes Life Meaningful?

This conversation with philosophy professor Prakash Chenjeri and chaplain Fred Grewe aims to engage participants in a thoughtful and meaningful discussion about this very human question.

Event | February 6, 2019

Conversation Project: Can We Get Along?

Examining Our Personal Experiences of Connection and Community

Event | February 7, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Self-sufficiency and American Life

Event | February 28, 2019

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

Organizations and communities are working to invite broader groups of people to engage in their work as employees, patrons, board members, and donors. Having a statement at the end of a job announcement to encourage communities of color, queer people, and women to apply can be a start, but how do policies, environment, and culture support this invitation? How do they fail to support it? How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion.

Event | March 12, 2019

Conversation Project: Listening to Young People

What does it look like when adults really listen to young people? Cultural beliefs about young people perpetuate myths that cause harm, especially when combined with laws that control their physical and emotional autonomy and limit their ability to participate in public life. Young people experiencing marginalization for any reason—race, gender, sexuality, ability—also have the added layer of not being taken seriously because of their age. And yet the history of social justice movements in the United States is deeply connected to young people’s agency, autonomy, and power. Join facilitator Emily Squires for a conversation that asks folks to explore their own beliefs about what it means to be young and to reflect on their individual relationship to power as it relates to age.

Event | April 13, 2019

Conversation Project: Sharing Our Lives with Animals

Whether we find ourselves on farms or ranches, in cities, or in other places between, our lives are entangled with the lives of other species. Our experiences with domestic animals—in particular those considered pets or livestock—affect the ways we understand relationships with them, who we value and depend upon in wildly different ways. As scientific research and broader cultural shifts challenge common notions about the intelligence and emotional lives of other beings, we face complex quandaries of how to respectfully recognize and care for the needs of domestic companions. For this conversation, artist and educator Karin Bolender Hart invites us to share our own animal stories, consider how our personal experiences and beliefs about the lives of animals shape the stories we tell, and reflect on how these stories in turn affect our choices as caretakers, farmers, consumers, and companions. Admission Fee: $5

Event | May 29, 2019

Conversation Project: Showing Up

Being part of a community is an essential need for all of us. It is a place where we find others who share common ground, where our values and identities are reflected. Community is also a place where we are supported and thrive. Join facilitator Chi Mei Tam in this conversation to explore what it means to be part of a community. What does it looks like when community shows up for you and vice versa? How does it work? To what extent are shared values and identities in our community enough or not enough to help us thrive?

Event | September 14, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Self-sufficiency and American Life

Event | January 12, 2019

Past Gatherings

Bridging Oregon | November 30, 2018

What Can Bridge the Divide?

Yoko Ikeda shares her experience with Bridging Oregon, a monthly conversation series that explores the idea that we're divided as a state and asks how we can come together to create stronger, more resilient communities.

Bridging Oregon | November 30, 2018

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Self-sufficiency and American Life

Event | January 10, 2019

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

In 2015, Oregon’s population exceeded 4 million people. Not only are we growing in number, we’re also changing demographically. Considering that Oregon has a history of racial exclusion, these changes prompt questions about Oregonian identity and values. How do we build communities that welcome people of all backgrounds? How are minority and under-represented populations included and treated today? Drawing on the diverse histories and backgrounds of attendees, Kerani Mitchell leads a conversation that asks what makes us Oregonian and how can we create inclusive communities.

Event | April 2, 2019

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

What does it mean to be a white ally, especially in close-knit, rural communities? And what does it mean to have the support of white allies? What is needed from white people in our communities to move the conversation about racism—both statewide and nationally—forward in a productive and respectful way? In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities. This conversation will set the table for bringing discussions about racism, white culture, and identity to your dining room, living room, and backyard BBQs.

Event | April 22, 2019

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before. How might the “new industrial revolution” of tinkerers and crafters affect American schools and workplaces? How do maker spaces or skills courses foster greater engagement and involvement? What could be left behind when we increase self-sufficiency in a community? All kinds of DIY interests are welcome: we can focus on foraging, permaculture, prepping, woodworking, or hovercraft making—or perhaps all of these at once! Through our shared stories, we will seek to understand more deeply how DIY functions in American life.

Event | April 30, 2019

Conversation Project: Showing Up

Being part of a community is an essential need for all of us. It is a place where we find others who share common ground, where our values and identities are reflected. Community is also a place where we are supported and thrive. Join facilitator Chi Mei Tam in this conversation to explore what it means to be part of a community. What does it looks like when community shows up for you and vice versa? How does it work? To what extent are shared values and identities in our community enough or not enough to help us thrive?

Event | May 16, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Event | December 4, 2018

Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Exploring Nontraditional Community Leadership

Event | December 14, 2018

Conversation Project: Why DIY?

Self-sufficiency and American Life

Event | January 11, 2019

Conversation Project: Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

Event | January 17, 2019

Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Exploring Nontraditional Community Leadership

Event | January 17, 2019

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Event | November 7, 2018

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Event | November 6, 2018

Conversation Project: What Makes Life Meaningful?

The question of what makes life meaningful has occupied human thinking for thousands of years. This conversation with philosophy professor Prakash Chenjeri and chaplain Fred Grewe aims to engage participants in a thoughtful and meaningful discussion about this very human question.

Event | October 19, 2018

Conversation Project: Is Technology Outpacing Our Humanity?

Facilitator Manuel Padilla will lead this conversation to explore how technology shapes our moral reasoning and our perceptions of, and relationships with, one another.

Event | November 28, 2018

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

How Relationships Affect the Places We Live

Event | November 14, 2018

Conversation Project: White Allyship in Close-knit Communities

In this conversation led by facilitator Alexis James, participants will have the chance to explore their identities, learn how to acknowledge different lived experiences without alienating friends and neighbors, and move toward action in their own communities.

Event | November 8, 2018

Conversation Project: The Space Between Us

Immigrants, Refugees, and Oregon

Event | October 1, 2018

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

How Relationships Affect the Places We Live

Event | October 25, 2018

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

How Relationships Affect the Places We Live

Event | November 18, 2018

Conversation Project: Won't You Be My Neighbor?

How Relationships Affect the Places We Live

Event | November 29, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | December 3, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | October 18, 2018

Conversation Project: Everyone Can Be a Leader

Exploring Nontraditional Community Leadership

Event | October 11, 2018

Conversation Project: Why DIY? Self-sufficiency and American Life

Are we as self-sufficient as we can be? As we should be? What are the pleasures and pitfalls of doing it yourself? This conversation investigates why we strive to be makers and doers in a world that provides more conveniences than ever before.

Event | September 16, 2018

Conversation Project: Sharing Our Lives with Animals

Artist and educator Karin Bolender Hart invites us to share our own animal stories, consider how our personal experiences and beliefs about the lives of animals shape the stories we tell, and reflect on how these stories in turn affect our choices as caretakers, farmers, consumers, and companions.

Event | September 27, 2018

Creating Connection Across Oregon

Bridging Oregon and Dear Stranger are starting conversations about the places we call home.

Magazine | August 30, 2018

Deep Roots

Samantha Bakall writes about how Mudbone Grown, an urban farm in North Portland, offers celebration and community in the face of Oregon's white-dominated agriculture industry.

Magazine | August 30, 2018

Showing Up: What Does It Mean to Belong to a Community?

Join facilitator Chi Mei Tam in this conversation to explore what it means to be part of a community. What does it looks like when community shows up for you and vice versa? How does it work? To what extent are shared values and identities in our community enough or not enough to help us thrive?

Event | September 8, 2018

Conversation Project: Showing Up

What Does It Mean to Belong to a Community?

Event | July 14, 2018

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | August 3, 2018

Conversation Project: Everyday Leaders

Recognizing Leadership Beyond Power and Authority

Event | August 30, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | May 30, 2018

Expanding East

Oregon Humanities partners with Rosewood Initiative and Alder College to offer Humanity in Perspective courses in East Portland.

Magazine | April 27, 2018

Exchange and Change

Adam Davis, executive director of Oregon Humanities, on people listening to one another in Lake County, Oregon

Magazine | April 27, 2018

Posts

Readers write about Owe

Magazine | April 27, 2018

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

Drawing on the diverse histories and backgrounds of participants, Kerani Mitchell leads a conversation that asks what makes us Oregonian and how can we create inclusive communities.

Event | September 6, 2018

Conversation Project: Showing Up

Join facilitator Chi Mei Tam in this conversation to explore what it means to be part of a community. What does it looks like when community shows up for you and vice versa?  How does it work? To what extent are shared values and identities in our community enough or not enough to help us thrive?

Event | August 10, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Facilitators Anita Yap and Traci Price will lead participants in a conversation that looks at how Oregon’s history of racism influences our present and asks, How can understanding historic and current impacts of racism in Oregon contribute to our sense of place and vision of the future?

Event | June 26, 2018

Conversation Project: Showing Up

Join facilitator Chi Mei Tam in this conversation to explore what it means to be part of a community. What does it looks like when community shows up for you and vice versa?  How does it work? To what extent are shared values and identities in our community enough or not enough to help us thrive?

Event | August 30, 2018

2018 Humanity in Perspective Commencement

A commencement ceremony to celebrate the graduating Humanity in Perspective class.

Event | April 28, 2018

Finding Our Way Amidst Racial Differences

A public discussion on the skills, awareness, and actions needed to improve race relations in Ashland. Facilitated by Marjorie Trueblood-Gamble from Southern Oregon University and Adam Davis from Oregon Humanities.

Event | April 27, 2018

Finding Our Way Amidst the Unhoused

A community conversation on homelessness, transiency, the housed and unhoused in Southern Oregon. Facilitated by Adam Davis of Oregon Humanities and Ryan Stroud of CommuniTalks.

Event | April 27, 2018

Conversation Project: Everyday Leaders

Recognizing Leadership Beyond Power and Authority

Event | April 30, 2018

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | April 14, 2018

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | May 4, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | April 23, 2018

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | June 23, 2018

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Event | March 2, 2018

Bridging Oregon Participant Application Deadline (EXTENDED)

Oregon Humanities is looking for people in Central Oregon to participate in this monthly conversation series.

Event | March 5, 2018

Conversation Project: Everyday Leaders

Recognizing Leadership Beyond Power and Authority

Event | March 29, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | March 10, 2018

Conversation Project: Democracy from the Inside Out

Listening to Our Consciences and Our Neighbors

Event | March 8, 2018

Astoria Call to Life: An Earth Day Ingathering

Clatsop Community College Foundation presents a collaborative performance and discussion by philosopher Kathleen Dean Moore and pianist Rachelle McCabe. This program is made possible in part by a Responsive Program Grant from Oregon Humanities.

Event | April 20, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | June 3, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | March 5, 2018

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | March 10, 2018

Bridging Our Divide Community Dialogue

Bridging Our Divide community events are focused on fostering conversation and understanding across political and ideological divides. This event will feature speakers from the local community and group activities to promote dialogue and empathy. This event is made possible in part by a Public Program Grant from Oregon Humanities.

Event | January 27, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 28, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 28, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | March 7, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | February 26, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | February 27, 2018

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | March 17, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | April 18, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 26, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | March 23, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | May 5, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | May 9, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How do you know if a space is inclusive and accessible for all, and is such a goal even possible? What do you do about the tension between people who have different needs to feel included? Join Rachel Bernstein to explore what it takes to make the shift from invitation to inclusion.

Event | March 15, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | August 17, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | January 17, 2018

Think & Drink on Organizing in Oregon

Join us for a conversation about the challenges and opportunities in community organizing around Oregon at the Alberta Rose Theatre in Portland.

Event | January 24, 2018

Field Work: Community Stories Onstage

Student-created show raises consciousness in Southern Oregon's Illinois Valley

Magazine | December 15, 2017

Conversation Project: The World to Come

How Our Fear about the Future Affects Our Actions

Event | January 25, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | January 25, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | February 22, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | April 20, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | March 11, 2018

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | March 27, 2018

Alternate Endings, Radical Beginnings

A program of short videos by Visual AIDS

Event | December 1, 2017

Sarah Schulman: Gentrification of the Mind

A reading, talk, and panel followed by a screening of United in Anger: A History of ACT UP

Event | December 2, 2017

Sarah Shulman: Reading <i>Conflict Is Not Abuse</i>

This free, facilitated reading group is part of PICA's World AIDS Day Program.

Event | December 3, 2017

PLAYA Presents: Calligraphy of the Wind

A discussion with PLAYA resident and novelist Leslie Schwartz about the ways that specific places and communities shape the creative process.

Event | December 9, 2017

Season of Nonviolence: A Conversation with Julissa Arce

In commemoration of the Season of Nonviolence, immigration and education rights advocate Julissa Arce will use her inspirational story to change the conversation around immigration. This program is made possible in part by a Responsive Program Grant from Oregon Humanities.

Event | February 7, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 1, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | February 8, 2018

Conversation Project: The World to Come

How Our Fear about the Future Affects Our Actions

Event | February 28, 2018

Conversation Project: Democracy from the Inside Out

Listening to Our Consciences and Our Neighbors

Event | March 15, 2018

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | April 7, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 7, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | May 12, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | April 19, 2018

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | March 15, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | March 11, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | March 4, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | March 3, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | January 25, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 3, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | February 21, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | May 17, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | January 18, 2018

Race and Domestic Violence

Join Adelante Mujeres, Bradley Angle, YWCA of Greater Portland, and Micronesian Islander Community for an evening of poetry, education, and discussion to foster a greater understanding of the significance of race and ethnicity in relationship to domestic violence.

Event | October 26, 2017

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | April 10, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | March 25, 2018

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 24, 2018

What's Brewing?

The Crook County Foundation hosts this public forum on current events and issues happening locally, regionally, and at the state level. This is an Oregon Humanities grant-funded event.

Event | October 18, 2017

What's Brewing?

The Crook County Foundation hosts this public forum on current events and issues happening locally, regionally, and at the state level. This is an Oregon Humanities grant-funded event.

Event | October 25, 2017

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | December 7, 2017

Conversation Project: Talking about Dying (POSTPONED)

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | February 13, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | February 15, 2018

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | November 8, 2017

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | October 26, 2017

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | January 29, 2018

Conversation Project: From Saving to Serving

On Intervening in the Lives of Others

Event | January 31, 2018

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | February 24, 2018

Conversation Project: From Saving to Serving

On Intervening in the Lives of Others

Event | December 6, 2017

Conversation Project: Talking About Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | January 30, 2018

Conversation Project: The World to Come

How Our Fear about the Future Affects Our Actions

Event | February 21, 2018

Conversation Project: Democracy from the Inside Out

Listening to Our Consciences and Our Neighbors

Event | November 2, 2017

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | May 12, 2018

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | November 11, 2017

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | October 19, 2017

Conversation Project: The World to Come

How Our Fear about the Future Affects Our Actions

Event | January 10, 2018

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | November 16, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | December 18, 2017

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | January 23, 2018

Conversation Project: In Good Faith

Exploring Religious Difference in Oregon

Event | March 15, 2018

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | April 14, 2018

Finding Home at the Mims

From the 1940s to '60s, the Mims House was a safe place to stay for African Americans traveling through Oregon. Now it’s a gathering place for the Black community in Eugene. Video by Nisha Burton.

This Land | September 11, 2017

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | September 28, 2017

Conversation Project: Beyond Invitation

How Do We Create Inclusive Communities?

Event | December 7, 2017

Conversation Project: What Is Cultural Appropriation?

Issues of cultural appropriation and identity are complicated. Power dynamics influence who benefits from certain cultural experience, and—given the global nature of our world—parts of our individual and cultural identities are shaped by cultures other than our own. How do we make sense of this and what effect does it have on us as individuals and as Oregonians?

Event | October 7, 2017

Conversation Project: A Place to Call Home

Exploring Housing in Oregon

Event | December 17, 2017

Conversation Project: Race and Place

Racism and Resilience in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | December 16, 2017

Conversation Project: What Does It Mean to Be American?

Given the differences of race, ethnicity, place, religion, wealth, language, education, and ideology that exist in the US, what are the things that unite us a nation? How do we understand what it means to be American and what we hold valuable?

Event | November 4, 2017

Conversation Project: Ritual and Ceremony in Modern Life

How do we make meaning out of the big milestones in our personal and community lives?

Event | October 12, 2017

Conversation Project: Beyond Fake News

How We Find Accurate Information about the World

Event | October 7, 2017

Conversation Project: From Saving to Serving

On Intervening in the Lives of Others

Event | September 7, 2017

Conversation Project: What Are You?

Mixed-Race and Interracial Families in Oregon’s Past and Future

Event | November 18, 2017

Conversation Project: In Science We Trust?

The Role of Science in a Democracy

Event | May 16, 2018

Invite in the Stranger

Adam Davis on radical hospitality

Magazine | August 22, 2017

PLAYA Presents

Current PLAYA residents ask, How can the art we make and the technology we devise feed the needs of our own community? This is an Oregon Humanities grant-funded event.

Event | August 19, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | August 30, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | October 26, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | August 11, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | October 3, 2017

Stake Your Place

The Cully neighborhood of Portland offers a glimpse at the complex racial, ethnic, and economic factors at play in a community trying to resist the forces of gentrification, displacement, and change.

This Land | July 2, 2017

Hearing the Houseless

This is an Oregon Humanities grant-funded event.

Event | June 10, 2017

Conversation Project: What Are You?

Mixed-Race and Interracial Families in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | June 3, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | September 9, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | August 24, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | October 10, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | October 9, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | June 19, 2017

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | May 18, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | November 28, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | September 21, 2017

Talking about Dying

This conversation provides an opportunity for participants to reflect on what stories and influences shape their thinking about death and dying and to hear perspectives and ideas from fellow community members.

Event | August 10, 2017

Confluence Story Gathering

Oregon Humanities is a cosponsor of this event.

Event | May 6, 2017

Vanport Mosaic Festival

Theater, documentaries, historic exhibits, lectures, and tours will explore will explore the history and legacy of Vanport. Oregon Humanities is a cosponsor of this event.

Event | May 26, 2017

"Priced Out" Screening and Dialogue

Watch an excerpt from the film and then join the discussion about how rising housing prices are displacing Portland's black community. Oregon Humanities is a cosponsor of this event.

Event | May 28, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You from?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | April 26, 2017

Conversation Project: Understanding Disability

Family and Community Stories

Event | April 19, 2017

Conversation Project: Looking for Leadership *CANCELED*

What Do We Want from Leaders? This event has been canceled and will be rescheduled to a later date.

Event | April 18, 2017

Confluence Story Gathering

Oregon Humanities is a cosponsor of this event.

Event | April 15, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You from?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | April 13, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You from?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | May 2, 2017

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | August 16, 2017

Conversation Project: From Saving to Serving

On Intervening in the Lives of Others

Event | April 5, 2017

What We Share

From the Director

Magazine | April 5, 2017

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | May 9, 2017

Conversation Project: In Good Faith

Exploring Religious Difference in Oregon

Event | May 10, 2017

Conversation Project: Just a Number

Aging and Intergenerational Friendship

Event | June 6, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You from?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | May 18, 2017

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | May 20, 2017

2017 Humanity in Perspective Commencement

A commencement ceremony to celebrate the graduating Humanity in Perspective class.

Event | April 29, 2017

Conversation Project: You're In or You're Out

Exploring Belonging

Event | August 8, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | March 21, 2017

Talking about Dying

Event | March 22, 2017

Conversation Project: Understanding Disability

Family and Community Stories

Event | March 16, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You from?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | June 25, 2017

Conversation Project: Looking for Leadership

What Do We Want from Leaders?

Event | March 7, 2017

Conversation Project: What Are You?

Mixed-Race and Interracial Families in Oregon's Past and Future

Event | March 5, 2017

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

How Recipes Can Preserve History and Nourish Community

Event | March 3, 2017

Conversation Project: In Good Faith

Exploring Religious Difference in Oregon

Event | May 6, 2017

Conversation Project: Where Are You From?

Exploring What Makes Us Oregonians

Event | February 25, 2017

Conversation Project: In Good Faith

Exploring Religious Difference in Oregon

Event | February 22, 2017

Race Tool Kit Workshop

Event | February 19, 2017

Confluence Story Gathering

Event | February 18, 2017

Conversation Project: You're In or You're Out

Exploring Belonging

Event | February 16, 2017

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

Event | February 11, 2017

Conversation Project: Stone Soup

Event | February 9, 2017

Conversation Project: What Are You?

Event | February 9, 2017

The Golden Hour

The collective strength of strangers after a horrifying accident. An essay by Jason Arias

Magazine | December 6, 2016

Sunday, Laundry Day

Every quarter counts in subsidized senior housing. An essay by Josephine Cooper

Magazine | August 11, 2016

Slow Ascent

A Chinese American woman searches for belonging in the country of her grandparents. An essay by Jessica Yen

Magazine | August 11, 2016

"I'm Not Staying Here Another Day"

A conversation about the Great Migration with Isabel Wilkerson and Rukaiyah Adams

Beyond the Margins | June 28, 2016

Just People Like Us

Writer Guy Maynard on a little-known history of a Southern Oregon community during World War II where prisoners of war were more welcome than US military of color

Magazine | April 11, 2016

Housekeeping

In the face of loss, cleaning hotel rooms and a lifelong friend offer solace. An essay by Meryl Williams

Magazine | April 11, 2016

Rootedness

An essay by Brian Doyle

Beyond the Margins | January 28, 2016

Safely and Bravely

Editor Kathleen Holt on keeping her daughter safe in a place filled with threats of violence, disappointment, and despair

Magazine | August 11, 2015

Civil Rights with Guns

Are there alternatives to police that could keep communities safe? Author Kristian Williams discusses lessons from the Black Freedom Movement.

Magazine | August 11, 2015

Searching for Fire in the Belly

Talking about Dying | April 10, 2015

Beyond Repair

Editor Kathleen Holt on the aftermath of a traumatizing fire

Magazine | April 7, 2015

Posts

Magazine | April 7, 2015

Design for a Crowded Planet

Cynthia E. Smith, the curator of socially responsible design at the Smithsonian Cooper-Hewett design museum, talks about innovative solutions by and for city dwellers.

Magazine | December 5, 2013

What It Means to Say Portland

Mitchell S. Jackson on the experience of growing up Black in North and Northeast Portland.

Magazine | December 5, 2013

Belonging and Connection

Bette Lynch Husted on imperfect small-town life in Pendleton.

Magazine | December 5, 2013

Why We Stay

Monica Drake on raising a family in an urban neighborhood instead of a more serene but less vibrant rural place.

Magazine | December 5, 2013

More Than Skin Deep

Scholar Naomi Zack on the science and social construction of race in America

Magazine | August 9, 2013

Being More Human

Intel'’s resident futurist, Brian David Johnson, on how the steampunk culture offers clues to building a better tomorrow

Magazine | July 18, 2013

The State That Timber Built

Tara Rae Miner on what Oregon owes the struggling timber communities that helped shape the state’s identity

Magazine | April 8, 2012

A Region by Any Name

From Ecotopia to Cascadia Megaregion, visions of the Pacific Northwest have been secessionist in nature. An essay by Carl Abbott

Magazine | April 8, 2012

The Olde Towne Team

For sports fans, it's more than just a game. An essay by Guy Maynard

Magazine | November 8, 2011

Uprockin' the Rose City

The community that hip hop built in Portland. An article by Walidah Imarisha

Magazine | August 12, 2011

That Public Thing

What jazz can teach us about being a community. An essay by Tim DuRoche

Magazine | August 12, 2011

Second-Chance Family

Rajneeshpuram has come and gone: what keep believers bound to one another? By Marion Goldman

Magazine | August 12, 2011

Love Thy Neighbor (Sometimes)

A close-knit neighborhood can make us happy, but it can also add to the busy-ness of daily life. An essay by Jamie Passaro

Magazine | December 5, 2010

The Working Class

Bette Lynch Husted argues that hard times are good times to rethink our attitudes about the fungibility of workers.

Magazine | August 10, 2010