 From the beginning as a territory Oregon's White population was determined to have a Whites only homeland that would prohibit the presence of African Americas as visitors, citizens or slaves. This just published book by Herman L. Brame traces the beginnings, and obstacles faced by African American athletes residing in and coming to Oregon from roughly the 1860s to about 1960. From the frontier to the Olympics African American athletes representing the major sports defied social convention and openly competed in Oregon against all odds. These athletes participated in rodeo,bare knuckles fighting, boxing, baseball, basketball, track and field etc. Some world champions seeking success and fortune in Oregon while others were community, high school and college athletes who all played a role in challenging White Supremacy and segregation through their athletic participation and success.
The book, The Long Ebony Line, will be available for sale in the fall of 2014.
Plans are being made for a documentary film and lecture series covering the book and its message. For continuing information check with oregonstars.com and bramehl@yahoo.com.
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