U.S. Attorney Statement on National Black History Month

PORTLAND, Ore.—Today, U.S. Attorney Scott Erik Asphaug of the District of Oregon issued the following statement on National Black History Month, 2022.

“This February, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon joins its law enforcement partners in celebrating National Black History Month. Together, we honor the countless contributions of Black Americans and the legacies and achievements of our country’s Black leaders, past and present. We recommit ourselves to confronting historic injustices that persist today. Created more than 150 years ago, the Justice Department’s first mission was to protect Black rights after the Civil War. This sacred mission continues. Black communities across the country are disproportionately victimized and impacted by gun violence. The same is true here in Portland. We are working vigorously with our partners to stop these deadly shootings. Protecting Black rights starts with protecting Black lives. We are deeply committed to advancing equity, racial justice, and opportunity for Black Americans and doing everything in our power to support and foster safe, healthy, vibrant, and resilient Black communities.”