Governor Kotek Orders Flags Lowered to Honor Late Senator Gordly

Flags will fly at half-staff on March 17 to coincide with a celebration of life for the pioneering Black legislator.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 8:09pm

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Governor Tina Kotek has ordered flags at Oregon public institutions to be flown at half-staff on March 17, 2026, in honor of former State Senator Avel Gordly, who passed away on February 16, 2026. Gordly was the first Black woman elected to the Oregon State Senate and a tireless advocate for civil rights, access to mental health care, and public education.

Why it matters

Senator Gordly's trailblazing career and advocacy for underserved communities left a lasting impact on Oregon. Lowering flags is a symbolic gesture to commemorate her life and legacy as a pioneering Black legislator who fought for greater equity and justice.

The details

The flag should be flown at half-staff on March 17 from sunrise to sunset to coincide with a celebration of life being held in Portland. Governor Kotek praised Gordly's 'integrity and strong moral compass' in working to improve public education, access to mental health care, and fairness within the criminal justice system.

  • Avel Gordly passed away on February 16, 2026.
  • Flags will be lowered on March 17, 2026 from sunrise to sunset.

The players

Tina Kotek

The Governor of Oregon who ordered flags to be lowered in honor of Senator Gordly.

Avel Gordly

The first Black woman elected to the Oregon State Senate, and a tireless advocate for civil rights, mental health care, and public education.

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What they’re saying

“Senator Gordly lived and served with integrity and a strong moral compass that Oregon can and should be a place where everyone has access to opportunity and justice.”

— Tina Kotek, Governor of Oregon

What’s next

A celebration of life for Senator Gordly will be held in Portland on March 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Avel Gordly's pioneering career and advocacy for underserved communities left an indelible mark on Oregon. Lowering flags to honor her legacy is a fitting tribute to a trailblazing legislator who fought tirelessly for civil rights, mental health access, and public education.