Remembering the Power of Words: The Life of an Oregon Activist, Legislator, and Community Leader

by Avel Louise Gordly, Melody Rose (Series Editor), Charlotte Rutherford (Foreword)

"Remembering the Power of Words" recounts the personal and professional journey of Avel Gordly, the first African-American woman elected to the Oregon State Senate.

The book is a brave and honest telling of Gordly's life. She shares the challenges and struggles she faced growing up black in Portland in the 1950s and 1960s, as well as her determination to attend college, the dedication to activism that took her from Portland to Africa, and her eventual decision to run for a seat in the state legislature.

That words have power is a constant undercurrent in Gordly's account and a truth she learned early in life. "Growing up, finding my own voice," she writes, "was tied up with denying my voice or having it forcefully rejected and in all of that the memory of my father is very strong. To this day--and I am today a very experienced public speaker--preparation to speak takes a great deal of energy." That this memoir has its origins as an oral history is fitting since Gordly has used her voice, out loud, to teach and inspire others for so many years.

Important as a biographical account of one significant Oregonian's story, the book also contributes "broader narratives touching on Black history (and Oregon's place within it), and most particularly the politics associated with being an African American woman," according to series editor Melody Rose.

The inaugural volume in the Women and Politics in the Pacific Northwest Series (series editor, Melody Rose)

Genres: Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2011

Reviews

[Sami]

It feels strange to rate someone’s life experience, so I will leave this lovely memoir unrated. However, I really enjoyed reading about the life and work of Avel Gordly, Oregon’s first African American female senator. I’m so inspired by her example to be a “first” in Oregon history. She also encountered so much throughout her life on top of that — abuse, mental health issues, and being a single mother to her son. Her story is an inspiring reminder that it’s possible to rise above your current circumstance in order to carve out the life you want for yourself.

[Elia Kruger · Rating 5 out of 5]

So so so good! Incredible insights into community activism, public service for public good, and even the significance between local and global bonds

[Corinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I learned so much and it affirmed what I value about people on this planet, as it spins with all of us together. We had better figure out how we're going to get along! That's the challenge!" p121

"...something important was literally missing from on the table. It was also a cultural thing. While we always strove towards consensus, language can be tricky. For some people language is linear, but linear thinking doesn't work for everybody. When bridging cultural divides some time needs to be invested in storytelling. Stories tell us who we are and where we are heading collectively." p127

[Pamela Ferguson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read - Ms Gordly shared high points and low points in her career. The community organizing that she participated in especially the Saturday School programs was fabulous. I only wish to have such luck with our non-profit efforts on Hayden Island. I knew nothing of the Oregon / Africa connection during the anti-apartheid movements. This is big and hope it's talked about in schools over the state. Applaud her efforts, successes, and achievements!

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Avel Gordly in the 80s at AFSC. Her book is honest and gives a great sense of who she is.