Community members came together at Riverside Community Church in Hood River on January 19, 2024, to honor the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. The event, themed “Hope is in Our Hands,” featured an interactive panel discussion, musical performances, and a call for unified action amidst challenging times.
The panel discussion, led by Rev. Vickie Stifter, included voices from diverse, intersectional backgrounds. Five panelists shared personal experiences and insights on navigating joy, hope, and advocacy in today’s sociopolitical landscape. Stifter emphasized the importance of recognizing the emotional weight of the current climate, stating, “We want to acknowledge the fact that these are hard times.”
Panelists Share Perspectives on Joy and Challenges
The panel featured notable community leaders, including Breen Goodwin, director of the Columbia Gorge Food Bank; Amber Rose, community engagement coordinator at the Hood River Latino Network; Kit Clasen, project coordinator for Columbia Gorge Pride Alliance; August Oaks, creative producer with Black in the Gorge; and Rosie Strange, a registered member of the Confederate Tribes of the Warm Springs.
During the discussion, panelists responded to questions about finding joy and facing grief in their advocacy work. Oaks identified gardening as a source of solace, while Strange spoke about the healing power of movement and community. Goodwin reflected on the emotional toll of funding cuts in food banking, saying, “There are no words that can justify the decisions to withhold life-sustaining support.”
The conversation also touched on the challenges of justice and community engagement. Strange noted the lack of representation among BIPOC individuals in attendance and called for greater outreach and understanding. Clasen urged attendees to confront difficult news and engage with their communities, stating, “I beg you to look deeper.”
Hope and Collective Action Highlighted
As the discussion moved towards finding hope, panelists shared moments that inspired them. Rose reflected on a significant march in April that united many in the community, while Oaks emphasized the importance of empathy in fostering connection. Strange found hope in her children and the acknowledgment of grief, saying, “Grief gives me hope,” highlighting the necessity of recognizing pain in the journey toward healing.
Goodwin shared a poignant moment experienced at a food pantry, illustrating community spirit during tough times. “I had to hold on to that moment,” she said, emphasizing the importance of community care and love.
The panel concluded with a call to action, encouraging attendees to engage actively in addressing societal issues. Goodwin remarked, “This is not a food issue. This is a power issue. This is a class issue.” The sentiment resonated throughout the event, highlighting the interconnectedness of various struggles, from food insecurity to social justice.
The celebration not only honored the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. but also reinforced the community’s commitment to hope, unity, and collective action in the face of adversity. As the event wrapped up, participants left inspired to carry forward the message of solidarity and advocacy for a more just society.
