Meyer Memorial Trust

We're excited to share that last month Meyer’s Board of Trustees approved the Justice Oregon for Black Lives initiative to continue in perpetuity. Launched in 2020 with $25 million, Justice Oregon remains our largest single initiative to date, and we’re just getting started. Join us in celebrating this milestone! Watch our latest video, created with Justice Oregon grantee Lion Speaks, to dive into the initiative’s history, hear from our incredible grantee partners — Love is King, the Maxville Heritage Interpretive Center and Constructing Hope Pre-Apprenticeship Program — and gain insights from Meyer leadership. This is just the beginning — we can’t wait to share more about our impact in the months ahead. Watch the full video here: https://lnkd.in/gz3grefs

Just about one week left to apply to the Oregon Communications Fundamentals Academy! For early comms professionals, this cohort is key to building the necessary skills for an impactful career. Check out more below + apply soon.

?Celebrating Local Victories ?Rogue Climate wins big for climate justice! After years of youth-led activism, the Ashland City Council unanimously voted to incentivize all electric new homes. “The Ashland ordinance is a great sign. So many communities across Oregon are hoping to hold their cities accountable for the climate goals they set. We hope this inspires them,” said Jess Grady-Benson of Rogue Climate. A new wave of local climate policies is on the way! https://lnkd.in/gbffDum7

This month, Senior Program Officer Allister Byrd connected with the Black Cultural Initiative and OnPoint to learn more about their community center, The People's Collective. Among the myriad of resources BCI provides to community members in Eugene, this center houses a business incubator that supports small Black business growth and development. https://lnkd.in/gJDxYW-b

"So let me be clear: Meyer remains unwavering in our mission and resolute in our commitment to the people and places of Oregon," says CEO Toya Fick in her latest statement. "We are the same Meyer we were before January 20. The election may have shifted the political landscape, but it has not changed our principles. We will not retreat. We will not compromise our values. Instead, we will deepen our resolve, expand our support and accelerate our efforts where they are needed most." In response to the executive orders that threaten the communities we stand with and support, Meyer committed $1 million in rapid-funding to organizations on the frontlines of democracy building, increased funding to organizations supporting immigrant and refugee communities, deepened our connections with leaders and policymakers + more. Read Fick's full statement today. https://lnkd.in/ggbwmFp9

Calling all organizers + movement builders ?? Applications for the 2025 Defending Democracy fellowship program through Western States Center are now open. In addition to hands-on experience in shifting culture, fellows will gain: ?? Tools to counter white nationalism and other bigoted movements ?? Strong relationships among peers ?? An enhanced vision of inclusive democracy + more Learn more + apply by March 7. https://lnkd.in/g4gGtrmG

Due to inclement weather, we're rescheduling tonight's screening to March 7. If you're interested in a deeper understanding of country's ever-present past, Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts sheds light on the often-contradictory role play by Black soldiers throughout American history. Learn more + RSVP today: https://ow.ly/tcBf50UZCV3

Due to inclement weather, Meyer is closed today, Feb 13. We will likely reopen Monday, Feb 17. For more info about warming shelters in Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas Counties, visit: https://lnkd.in/gZiRNwqc

Come celebrate Black History Month with us ?? On Feb 13, Meyer will host the award-winning filmmaker and founder of Black Bald Films, Dru Holley, on his multi-state tour of Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts. This film explores the often-contradictory role play by the Black soldiers throughout American history, with particular emphasis on the settling of the American West and colonialism abroad. Dru Holley is dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and telling the stories often left out of mainstream narratives. With a passion for history and social justice, Holley's work highlights the connections between Black and Native American communities, exploring untold stories with a focus on resilience, identity and empowerment. His films aim to inspire and educate audiences, fostering a deeper understanding of the past to create a more inclusive future. This is a FREE event. Space is limited. RSVP today to secure your spot!

We're so thankful to connect with Executive Director of Western States Center, Amy Herzfeld-Copple, to learn about her organization's strategies in 2025. Against the backdrop of a new presidential administration and urgent challenges to the communities we serve, Herzfeld-Copple reminds us of two things: 1. As progressive organizers, we are experts at maintaining hope and 2. We’ve been here before and we are more ready this time. “Backlash is better with friends,” she says. “So stay in organization, form coalitions, be a part of civic groupings that are speaking out and helping to set a community norm that democracy will be defended.” Watch the video. https://lnkd.in/gCYYkseC