Avel Louise Gordly

Avel Louise Gordly, a trailblazing American politician, dedicated activist, and esteemed educator, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 79 in Portland, Oregon. Born in Portland on February 13, 1947, Gordly dedicated her life to public service, advocating tirelessly for social justice, civil rights, and the betterment of her community. Her remarkable career was marked by numerous historic achievements and a profound commitment to equity.

Gordly made history in 1996 when she became the first African-American woman elected to the Oregon State Senate, where she served with distinction until 2009. Prior to her time in the Senate, she was appointed to the Oregon House of Representatives in 1991, serving three terms. Throughout her legislative tenure, Senator Gordly championed critical issues, including education reform, mental health services, and criminal justice. She was instrumental in leading efforts to remove the state's discriminatory Black exclusion laws from Oregon's constitution in 1999 and sponsored legislation in 2001 to officially recognize Juneteenth in Oregon.

Beyond her legislative accomplishments, Gordly was a formidable community organizer and activist. Her early career included impactful roles with the Oregon Department of Corrections, the Urban League of Portland, and the American Friends Service Committee, where she actively participated in anti-apartheid campaigns. Her advocacy for mental health led to the establishment of the Avel Gordly Center for Healing at Oregon Health & Science University in 2008, a facility dedicated to providing culturally sensitive mental health services to underserved populations.

After retiring from the legislature, Gordly continued her commitment to education as an associate professor in the Black Studies Department at Portland State University, her alma mater. She co-authored her memoir, "Remembering the Power of Words," in 2011, offering insights into her life and struggles, including her candid discussions about depression. Her enduring legacy was further recognized with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Portland State University in 2017, and the City of Portland proclaimed March 30, 2022, as "Avel Louise Gordly Day" in her honor.

Avel Louise Gordly's life was a testament to perseverance, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to justice. Her pioneering spirit and tireless work have left an indelible mark on Oregon's political landscape and the lives of countless individuals. She will be remembered as a visionary leader who consistently fought for a more equitable and inclusive society.