North Portland celebrates Dawson Park re-opening
September 17, 2014
Last night, Nick was proud to join hundreds of North Portland neighbors to celebrate the grand re-opening of Dawson Park.
The park has been a longtime gathering place for children, families, and the African-American community.
Named after child welfare and civic improvements advocate Reverend John Dawson, Dawson Park has a rich history in our community. From the 1940s – 1970s, it was the center of many important for many social and political movements – including Civil Rights marches and a memorable speech by Robert F. Kennedy.
With strong partnerships, Dawson Park has now been re-designed into a beautiful community space with play structures accessible to children of all abilities. Portland Parks & Recreation, the Portland Development Commission, Portland Parks Foundation, Legacy Emanuel Hospital, the Regional Arts & Culture Council, and the Harper’s Playground family all worked together to ensure that Dawson Park will continue to honor its history, and serve the community for generations to come.
As former Parks Commissioner, Nick appreciates the significance of Dawson Park to Portland’s history, and looks forward to seeing it become a neighborhood gathering place once more.
Visit Dawson Park! It’s located on N Stanton and Williams Ave.