In this episode we unlock secrets of the southwestern coastal region of Oregon, and explore the layered past of Coos Bay in particular, confronting some of its darkest chapters. We embark on a historical odyssey, beginning with the transformation of Marshfield to Coos Bay, as it is known today. Find out how the city's indigenous heritage and the Coos language played a pivotal role in shaping its identity. We’ll delve into the legacies of the last known speakers of the Coos language, shedding light on the cultural tapestry woven by indigenous inhabitants and their nearly lost language that still attempts to echo through time. Our journey through time is far from monochrome, painting the city with its rich artistic heritage while acknowledging the darker hues of injustice and tragedy that have tinted its past.

We honor legacies long silenced and confront the uncomfortable truths of Oregon's history with racial prejudice, all through the lens of those who have dedicated themselves to preserving and retelling these stories. The conversation casts a spotlight on the systemic racism embedded in the Pacific Northwest's history, challenging the narratives that confine racial tensions to the Southern United States. By examining the legacy of white supremacy in our laws and societal structures, we aim to open eyes to the complex, and often obscured, history of race relations in our own backyard.

The episode culminates with a poignant remembrance of Alonzo Tucker and the grim reality of his 1902 lynching, a story that reverberates with the ongoing struggle for racial equality. We honor his memory and acknowledge the challenges faced by African-Americans within the justice system, both past and present. By bringing his story to light, we not only pay tribute to Tucker's life but also encourage a dialogue on the difficult task of honoring those who have suffered at the hands of an oppressor. Join us, to reflect, and to ensure, that their stories resonate with the gravity they deserve, as we strive together for a more just future.

This week we shared the podcast Sins & Survivors!

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