Since we got the call that the Train Foundation would for the first time name an American as Civil Courage Prize Laureate, we at Western States Center have been immersed in a conversation about what constitutes courage in these times.

Vigilantes who confront individuals they accuse of breaking the law aren’t ‘keeping the peace’—they’re intentionally creating a profoundly dangerous situation.

It’s critical that we not allow white nationalist and anti-democracy groups to grow and thrive behind the fiction that they aren’t responsible for the violence and bigotry they promote. Today’s verdict, although partial, helps to make that clear.

Today’s disturbing verdict is the result of a series of governmental and institutional failures beginning long before Kyle Rittenhouse picked up a gun on the fateful night of August 25, 2020. Western States Center is clear that it is these failures that led to two horrifying killings.

Next week marks a shorter work week for some of us, a chance to take a break from the breakneck pace of these past few years. For the fortunate amongst us, the Thanksgiving holiday is a chance to gather with family and friends, to break bread together and reflect on the ways our lives are blessed. To share our gratitude and give thanks.

Today self-described Proud Boy Alan Swinney was convicted of eleven counts, including unlawful use of a weapon and attempted assault, stemming from his participation in violent clashes in downtown Portland during the summer of 2020…

The violence taking place in Portland today is deeply disturbing, but it’s not surprising to anyone who has paid attention to the lead up to this event or the groups that organized it…

The January 6th attack on the Capitol was not a protest or rally. It was an attempted overthrow of American democracy…

Following a two-thirds vote by the Oregon House of Representatives to expel State Rep. Mike Nearman, Western States Center executive director Eric K. Ward issued the following statement….

Democracy in the U.S. is truly in danger. But that’s not reason to give up. It’s reason to keep rising up.

Western States Center released the following statement in response to news reports that Oregon State Rep. Mike Nearman now faces criminal charges for opening the Oregon Capitol to extremist protesters…

We welcome today’s verdict and know that holding one officer responsible is not the same as holding an institution, or a system, accountable. George Floyd’s friends, family and neighbors are in our thoughts right now, and we hope the verdict brings some comfort to them.

An expanded coalition of Oregon leaders is calling for Rep. Mike Nearman to resign and if he continues to refuse, to be removed from office as quickly as possible…

This week, it was reported that the Oregon State Police have completed their criminal investigation of the actions of State Representative Mike Nearman…

Video evidence shows Rep. Mike Nearman opening door of the capitol building to violent extremists….

The current scene at the Capitol is a fitting end to the Trump era. This president has relentlessly fueled conspiracy theories and repeatedly spurred his supporters—including white nationalists and militia members—to violence…