Past Events

Dear WO:KE family,

Our event guests and participants are always at the core and forefront of our minds, which is why we have decided, out of precaution to postpone #WOKEHAIR indefinitely due to COVID-19.

This was a very tough decision as we looked forward to engaging with you all on March 28.

For those that have already prepaid for this event, you will receive a full refund from us through Eventbrite. We will keep you updated on a future date for #WOKEHAIR as we pay close attention to the obvious events

Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been affected by this widespread virus. Thank you for you’re continued support and understanding.

In solidarity,

WO:KE PDX

WO:KE Presents “Hair-itage”.

Untold Truths and Myths About Hair Culture

For too long, Black people have been subjected to manipulative social constructs, disrespect and racial discrimination as it relates to their natural Hair-itage, styles and hair textures.

WO:KE PDX continuously provides brave spaces to dissect topics while creating awareness around current and historical cultural themes.

Hair-itage will dive into the lives of individuals to discuss spatial awareness, common misconceptions, hair appropriation, navigating corporate america and celebratory hair practices that are common in the Black community.


Past Events

 
 

WO:KE Presents “Culture”.

The Conclusion of Our 3 Part Series, S.H.A.D.E.S

In 2019, we set out to do a 3 Part Series called S.H.A.D.E.S (Sharing the History of Acceptance and Discrimination to Enlighten Society) where we discussed Colorism, Classism and lastly, Culture.

Although our typical format consists of breakout groups for intimate discussion, Culture's event will consist of an immersive lecture with the personal perspective of three individuals from diverse backgrounds:

Dr. Maulana Karenga (Activist, Author, creator of Kwanzaa) will discuss African American Culture, Striving and Struggle: Bringing forth the Best in Ourselves.

Dr. Jackie Wirz (Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies at OHSU) will speak about culture from an Asian American perspective, mental health and the stigma within medicine.

Dr. Andre Walcott (Scientific Program Management Scholar at OHSU) will discuss his experience as the first African American to graduate from his Ph.D. program in the school’s 50-year history, navigating many different cities with varying cultural differences and LGBTQ culture.

Come network, engage and learn about each speakers experience and how they've navigated their lives and careers based on their culture.

(S.H.A.D.E.S) Presents "CLA$$ISM"

S.H.A.D.E.S (Sharing the History of Acceptance and Discrimination to Enlighten Society), A 3 Part Series on Colorism, Cla$$ism and Culture.

CLA$$ISM is prejudice against or in favor of people belonging to a particular social class.

Where does classism exists today?

How is it portrayed?

How does class shape values, attitudes, social relations and bias?

How are different cultures affected by classism?

If you’ve attended previous events, then you know that WO:KE is a community based organization emphasizing in cultural networking and education by engaging in interactive dialogue amongst perfect strangers with similar and opposing views. Our goal is simple, unity, understanding and positive reinforcement!

 
 

WO:KE Presents #SHADES

DEAR BLACK PEOPLE: AN OPEN LETTER ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH & RADICAL HEALING