Social Justice Speaker Series: Oregon Black Pioneers; Mariah Rocker, Public Programs & Exhibits Manager

Our "We are Stronger Together" Social Justice Focus Speaker Series continues this month with a presentation by Mariah Rocker, the Public Programs and Exhibits Manager at Oregon Black Pioneers (OBP) titled Preserving Oregon’s Black History.

Black History Month 2026 marks a century of celebrating Black history, nationally and locally. Oregon Black Pioneers emphasizes the importance of this work and acknowledges some of the remarkable individuals who have helped to uplift this history over the past hundred years.

Oregon Black Pioneers is Oregon’s only historical society dedicated to preserving and presenting the experiences of African Americans statewide. For more than 30 years, they have illuminated the seldom-told stories of people of African descent in Oregon through engaging exhibits, public programs, publications, and historical research. This service will include a Special Collection to benefit Oregon Black Pioneers.

Mariah Rocker is the Public Programs and Exhibits Manager at Oregon Black Pioneers. With a bachelor's in Public Relations and a bachelor's in Sociology, Mariah’s passion for uncovering and sharing the stories of marginalized communities is evident in both her professional and personal pursuits. In her free time, Mariah channels the strength and resilience of historical icons by dressing up as them, and also enjoys crafting handmade miniatures.

Special Collection: Oregon Black Pioneers