In keeping with its tradition of celebrating community history, Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) has made another substantial contribution to Dawson Park's Historic Story Boulders. This time, a new boulder commemorates the impact of Black-owned newspapers in Portland, joining a collection that recounts the area's profound narratives through art and education. Launched in 2014, these boulders now number thirteen, each one a nod to pivotal events and epochs within Portland's chronicle, from the civil rights movement to local activism.
The most recent boulder, unveiled with the backing of Portland's City Council and a push from local citizens, pays tribute specifically to the legacy of pillars like The Skanner News and The Portland Observer. In the words of Bernie Foster, The Skanner News' Co-founder and Publisher, "This project is about the legacy of Black-owned media, and how it's been a part of Portland since we became a real city." The information, obtained by Portland.gov, reveals the deep-seated relation between the Black community and local media.
The artistic integrity of the boulders has been a priority for PP&R. Alongside the principal expansion, the department has replaced each of the original boulders' imagery plates to combat wear and tear. With local Black historian Kimberly Moreland casting her expertise, the freshly minted boulder integrates seamlessly into the series. Expressing admiration for the commitment to heritage, Priya Dhanapal, Deputy City Administrator for Public Works, stated, "We’re honored to support projects that celebrate and preserve the enduring contributions of Portland’s Black community and connect residents and visitors to the stories that have shaped our city," as per Portland.gov.
Dawson Park itself is steeped in history, particularly for the Black community, serving as a rallying point during pivotal civil rights moments. Now, the park entices with more than just open lawns and aged trees. Kids and families rejoice in the renovated playground and partake in the splash pad when summer turns the heat up. A notable refurbishment of the basketball court in 2023, which was made possible by PP&R in collaboration with Nike and the Portland Trailblazers, has attracted sports enthusiasts to the arena. According to Portland.gov, these amenities symbolize a lot more than recreational areas; they're keystones of community and history.
Amidst the park's greenery, people from various walks of life find solace, learn, and celebrate. Offering accessible routes, restrooms, and picnic spots, Dawson Park assures inclusivity. With the story boulders as a central element, local history is easier to grasp for anyone who stops by, effectively turning the park ground into a rich tapestry of Portland's past and present. And as PP&R Interim Director Sonia Schmanski puts it, "It’s a privilege to help preserve community history in a meaningful and visible way," as mentioned on Portland.gov.
