30 Stories for 30 Years

Thirty years ago, Oregonians from all walks of life defeated Ballot Measure 9, known to history as “one of the most comprehensive – and harshest – antigay measures put to voters in American history.” (Oregon Historical Quarterly)

What can this epic battle for civil and human rights tell us about today’s fight for inclusive democracy? 

To mark the 30-year anniversary of this remarkable multi-year mobilization, we’re sharing 30 stories leading up to Election Day, 2022. Each month we’ll release a fresh batch of three stories.

Read on. Share widely. 

Be encouraged, be brave. Take action, take heart.

Latest Stories

13: Bigot Busters

Bigot Busters aim to prevent anti-gay petition signatures and provide a gay-positive experience to those considering signing.

Read More

14: People of Faith Against Bigotry

LGBTQ people of faith and their allies help a range of denominations to take “whatever step was right for them, towards opposing discrimination and supporting equality.” 

Read More

15: Rural Activism

Rural activists all over the state refuse to abandon their communities to bigotry and find innovative ways to break isolation.

Read More

Coming next month….

16: Tom & Katie Potter

Story coming in June

17: Asian Americans Oppose 9

Story coming in June

18: Republicans Against 9

Story coming in June

“We have to become a movement that understands the long arc of history. Learning from earlier struggles teaches us discipline and helps prevent the sin of despair. In a time where some seek to erase or deny our nation’s history, remembering the stories that are part of the movement for inclusive democracy is a powerful act of resistance and redemption.”  

~ Eric K. Ward