Formed ten years ago by Shalanda Sims (shalandasims.com) in response to the lack of celebratory events in Portland during Black History month, Who I Am Celebrating Me dared to fill a void. Not only were there little to no events at the time but the topic was not widely discussed in schools so in an effort to educate youth, show them something they could be proud of and celebrate all year long, educators, business owners, youth, adults, senior citizens, artists, community members gathered to sing songs, recite poetry, and share oral history. To date, Who I Am Celebrating Me has helped educate over ten schools, more than 10,000 students, five businesses and their employees about the rich history and contributions of African-Americans.
Who I Am Celebrating Me is a community of youth and adult artists exploring history through theater. From soul-encompassing singing and dancing to heartfelt poetry and prose, the production highlights a montage of African-American figures and movements of past and present.