Avel Gordly, Oregon's First Black Woman State Senator, Dies at 79

Trailblazer and champion for civil rights, education, and justice reform leaves lasting legacy in Oregon

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Avel Gordly, the first Black woman elected to the Oregon State Senate, has died at the age of 79. Gordly was widely regarded as a trailblazer and champion for justice, with a legacy rooted in civil rights, education, and community advocacy. She served in the Oregon Legislature for over 20 years, pushing for reforms and championing causes like removing the state's racist Black exclusion laws and recognizing Juneteenth as a state holiday.

Why it matters

Gordly's passing marks the end of an era in Oregon politics, as the state loses a pioneering leader and steadfast voice for social justice, education, and community empowerment. Her life and work have left an indelible mark on the state's institutions and the lives of those she served.

The details

Born and raised in Portland, Gordly was elected to the Oregon House of Representatives in 1991, serving three terms before making history in 1996 as the first Black woman elected to the Oregon State Senate. During her 13-year tenure, she pushed for civil rights protections, mental health reform, and environmental advocacy. Gordly was instrumental in efforts to remove Oregon's racist Black exclusion laws and supported the creation of Harriet Tubman Middle School in Portland.

  • Gordly was elected to the Oregon House of Representatives in 1991.
  • Gordly made history in 1996 as the first Black woman elected to the Oregon State Senate.
  • Gordly served in the Oregon State Senate for 13 years, from 1996 to 2009.
  • Gordly passed away peacefully at her Portland home on February 16, 2026, at the age of 79.

The players

Avel Gordly

Oregon's first Black woman state senator, who served in the legislature for over 20 years and was a trailblazer and champion for civil rights, education, and justice reform.

Kerry Tymchuk

Executive director of the Oregon Historical Society, who described Gordly as a "good friend, an Oregon treasure, and a history maker."

Janelle Bynum

U.S. Representative who described Gordly as a mentor and friend, and said her "presence was regal and distinctive."

Margaret Carter

The first Black woman elected to Oregon's Legislature, who reflected on Gordly's love for her community and her deep devotion to the people she served.

Lakeitha Elliott

A community member who attended Harriet Tubman Middle School, which Gordly advocated for, and who credited Gordly's advocacy for shaping opportunities for future generations.

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What they’re saying

“She was a good friend, an Oregon treasure, and a history maker.”

— Kerry Tymchuk, Executive director of the Oregon Historical Society (saobserver.com)

“Her presence was regal and distinctive. I knew I was standing on the shoulders of a giant.”

— Janelle Bynum, U.S. Representative (Instagram)

“Ms. Avel was a mother, a mentor to me. She modeled what it was like to be from this neighborhood and to have an impact.”

— Lakeitha Elliott, Community member (saobserver.com)

What’s next

The Oregon Historical Society and Portland State University are planning memorial events to honor Avel Gordly's legacy and contributions to the state.

The takeaway

Avel Gordly's life and work have left an indelible mark on Oregon, as a trailblazer and champion for civil rights, education, and community empowerment. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of social justice leaders in the state.