June 3, 2020

The events of the past week have once again underscored the severity and violence of racism that our communities experience in the United States and across the world every day. The Junior League of Portland condemns the senseless acts of violence being perpetuated against the Black community here in Portland and nationally.  As Junior League leaders, we cannot stay silent and sit on the sidelines. The added layer of the global COVID-19 pandemic, this week has again raised the veil of racial inequities that are pervasive in our city.

As an organization that believes in building better communities and strives for leadership excellence, the Junior League of Portland, OR is striving to find ways to empower our members, be them members of the black community in Portland or allies. We support equity, inclusion, and racial justice for Black lives in our community and across the world. We as Junior League women strive to be civic leaders in our communities. As such, we must be reflective and hold ourselves accountable. We must do the work. We must be willing to be humble and vulnerable. We must speak out and we must be visible. We have to know when to be quiet and listen. And equally important, when to speak up.

In light of recent events, the Junior League of Portland commits to furthering efforts to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive membership. We are planning out a series of learning and engagement opportunities for members to learn and grow alongside one another, practice vulnerability, listen, and advocate. We see this as critical work in supporting our Black members and to amplify their voices.

Our commitment to equity and inclusion is as important as ever. If you would like to contribute to or become more involved in the Junior League of Portland’s DEI efforts, please reach out to diversity@jlpdx.org.