A Free Discussion about What Makes Us Oregonians Guided by Kerani Mitchell.
How do we build communities that welcome people of all backgrounds? 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 are minority and under-represented populations included and treated today?
Kerani Mitchell is an East Indian adoptee who has spent most of her life in small Oregon towns, Mitchell is accustomed to questions about her citizenship and lineage. The constant questioning of her identity inspired Mitchell to obtain a BA in International Studies from Seattle University, where she focused on multicultural and social justice issues. She’s since held numerous positions coordinating people and programs in nonprofit settings, working with immigrant, student, and volunteer populations.
This discussion is being co-sponsored by the Siskiyou Field Institute and the Unitarian Universalists Fellowship of Grants Pass.
Through the Conversation Project, Oregon Humanities offers free programs that engage community members in thoughtful, challenging conversations about ideas critical to our daily lives and our state’s future.
