DEI Speaker Series Returns with Three New Events

January 17, 2024 — To shed light on the history and/or lived experiences of people in historically-marginalized communities, the City of Wilsonville’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee is curating an all-new series of hour-long talks.

The DEI Speaker Series, which debuted last year, resumes with the first of three newly-scheduled events on Thursday, Feb. 1, at 6 pm at the Wilsonville campus of Clackamas Community College (29353 SW Town Center Loop E.).

“The series provides an opportunity for people to gain a better understanding of their neighbors, and we’re excited to bring it back,” said Erika Pham, the DEI Committee Chair. “We hope that, by sharing these stories, we help build a stronger, more empathetic community.”

All events begin at 6 pm at Clackamas Community College in Wilsonville; a period of Q&A discussion takes place with speaker following each presentation. Light refreshments are provided.

The complete series schedule follows:

Thurs., Feb. 1  “Fleeing Displacement and Escaping El Salvador’s Civil War for Life in America”, presented by Elizabeth Brashear & Karla Brashear        

Wed., Mar. 6   "LGBTQIA+: Understanding and Allyship" , presented by Erika Pham

Thu., Apr. 4   “Braving the Storm: a couple’s search for Sanctuary in Wilsonville”, presented by Bob, Kiana and Ellie Furughi

No pre-registration is required to attend these free DEI Speaker Series events; school-aged children are welcome.

The City is once again partnering with Willamette Falls Studios to record DEI Speaker Series events for more community members to learn and enjoy. Several events from the 2023 series can be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel.

For more details on the DEI Lecture Series events, contact Zoe Mombert, 503-570-1503; mombert@ ci.wilsonville.or.us.