The Look Back Lecture Series: Oregon City’s Chinese Expulsion

During the late 1800s, anti-Chinese discrimination was on the rise in Oregon. This was fueled by the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which banned Chinese immigration to the United States. On February 22, 1886, 40 men forced Chinese workers out of Oregon City and onto a steamboat to Portland. The group blamed Chinese laborers for taking jobs from White workers during hard economic times. Join author Jim Nicita for a compelling lecture exploring these injustices and the enduring history and legacy of Oregon City’s Chinese community. Discover the stories that have too often been overlooked and gain new insight into the city’s past.

Admission to the lecture is $10 for members and $20 for nonmembers. 2025 admission to the Look Back Lecture Series is free for Clackamas County residents thanks to the Union Pacific Railroad Communities Ties Giving Program while funds remain available.

Event Accessibility:

• Accessible parking
• Wheelchair-accessible venue
• Service animals welcome