Albina Riot of 1967 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Albina Riot of 1967 |
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| Part of Long, hot summer of 1967 | |||
| Date | July 30, 1967 | ||
| Location |
Albina District, Portland, Oregon, U.S.
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| Casualties | |||
| Arrested | 115 | ||
The Albina Disturbance of 1967 happened in the Albina area of Portland, Oregon. This event took place during a year when many other cities in the United States also saw similar protests and community unrest. People were speaking up for civil rights and against unfair treatment.
Contents
What Caused the Albina Disturbance?
A Gathering for Change
On July 30, 1967, about 100 to 150 people gathered at Irving Park in Portland. They came to listen to speakers from Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco. These speakers talked about important issues of the time.
Key Issues Discussed
The main topics at the gathering included:
- Civil rights: The fight for equal rights and fair treatment for all people.
- Poverty and unemployment: Problems where many people did not have enough money or jobs.
- Unfair treatment: How some groups faced discrimination in society.
- Police actions: Concerns about how police interacted with the community.
Rising Tensions
People expected a well-known activist, Eldridge Cleaver, to speak. He was a leader from the Black Panther Party. Before the event, there were rumors that things might get out of hand. Because of this, parents, religious leaders, and other community members asked people to stay home.
The police increased their presence and were at the park. When Cleaver did not show up, the mood became more tense. Some young people started throwing rocks and bottles at the police.
How the Disturbance Unfolded
Moving to Union Avenue
The situation quickly grew more serious. The group moved from Irving Park to a nearby street called Union Avenue. There, some people started fires and broke windows. They also took items from a stereo store.
Police Response and Aftermath
The next night, similar unrest and damage happened again. This time, the police responded very quickly. The Mayor of Portland, Terry Schrunk, and the Governor of Oregon, Tom McCall, were ready. They put the National Guard and State Police on alert. These groups were asked to stay close by, ready to help within 10 to 15 minutes if needed.
The disturbance caused some businesses to close for good. In total, 115 people were taken into custody. The damage to property was estimated to be over $50,000.
