In early 2014, four long-standing community members with deep roots in education and economic development recognized that Black and Brown children were not being exposed to or participating in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities or programs, thus perpetuating the dilemma of underrepresentation. This was a problem in North and Northeast Portland, where historically, schools that Black and Brown children attended received less funding, offered limited class offerings in math and science, and provided fewer opportunities for exposure to STEAM topics (e.g., Lego Robotics, Coding Classes, Environmental Justice, etc.). With the belief that STEAM is a strategy of choice to ensure that every child of color, in particular African American youth, has their entire career options available, the NE STEAM Coalition came together to support increasing STEAM opportunities for youth of color with a focus on African American students in the Portland Metro community.

Over the last 7 years, our coalition has begun to connect with Black, Brown, and Indigenous community organizers, leaders, and advocates. Our coalition has served to align resources, represent communities, and advocate for BIPOC across many STEAM sectors. From that ongoing vision, the Coalition has brought together partners from food manufacturing and green agriculture to environmental justice and computing.

To that end, the Coalition’s purpose is to build a networked community of public, private, and community organizations that prioritizes its work from the ground up. It is centered on BIPOC voices to expand access to culturally specific and affirming STEAM learning experiences and career trajectories for BIPOC youth and families. In addition to convening monthly meetings with over 25 community, government, school, and STEAM partners, we provide advocacy, resource development, programming, and support to community-based organizations (CBOs) who are committed to serving BIPOC youth, families, and communities.