Vanport Mosaic

Overview

Vanport Mosaic is a nonprofit organization based in Portland, Oregon, that serves as a platform for memory activism. Founded as a grassroots initiative, it has evolved into a nationally recognized entity dedicated to honoring and preserving silenced histories. The organization aims to amplify community voices and lived experiences to foster a deeper understanding of the past and shape a more inclusive future.

Mission and Values

The mission of Vanport Mosaic is to amplify, honor, and preserve the silenced histories surrounding its community. It operates under several core values:

• Memory Activism: Honoring erased histories by amplifying community voices and lived experiences.
• Collective Storytelling: Engaging in storytelling with people, not about them.
• Justice Through Joy: Using art and celebration to heal, remember, and envision a more just future.

Activities and Partnerships

Vanport Mosaic engages in various activities, including participatory oral history projects, theater performances, and community events. It partners with numerous organizations such as the Oregon Historical Society, Oregon Humanities, and Portland State University to achieve its objectives. The organization also hosts festivals and exhibitions to bring together storytellers, artists, educators, and community members.

Awards and Recognition

In recent years, Vanport Mosaic has received national recognition. It was recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2022 and received the Leadership in History Award from the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) in 2023.

Events and Initiatives

One of its notable initiatives is "Coming Home," a series of events celebrating the cultural legacy of Old Town in Portland, one of the city's oldest neighborhoods. This initiative aims to honor the resilience of communities that have faced historic racism and cultural erasure. The events include exhibits, community art projects, and roundtable discussions to reimagine a vibrant future for Old Town.