How We Show Up: Oregon Jews in Civil Society, An America 250 Exhibition

Since Oregon’s founding in 1859, Jews have participated in public life—building towns and holding office in the nineteenth century, advocating for civil rights, immigrant communities, and social justice in the decades that followed. Drawing from the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education’s collections, How We Show Up shares the stories of early Jewish mayors who helped establish towns across Oregon, women who organized networks of social welfare and immigrant support, and lawyers, activists, and community leaders who worked to expand civil rights and democratic participation. The exhibition also examines moments of tension and contradiction, exploring the limits of acceptance and the complexities of minority politics. As part of the national America 250 commemoration, How We Show Up reflects on the ongoing work of democracy—and narrates how each generation chooses to show up.

The public opening for the exhibition on June 28 is from 3:00 – 5:00pm

Event Accessibility:

• Wheelchair-accessible venue
• Sensory-friendly accommodations
• Service animals welcome