[Posted June 18, 2023]
Just in time for the opening of swim season, fresh signs are up proclaiming the new name for Hillsdale's public pool: Ida B. Wells-Barnett Outdoor Pool.
The public facility is located on the grounds of Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School but is owned and operated by Portland Parks and Recreation (PP&R). Note that school staff are not involved in the operation of the pool and that everything you need to know about hours, admission, and programming can be found at the PP&R pool webpage, www.portland.gov/parks/ida-b-wells-barnett-outdoor-pool.
The updated signage reflects the name chosen by PP&R based on the recommendation of a Naming Committee appointed by the Parks Department to choose a new name for the pool and A Park (formerly Custer Park).
The Naming Committee conducted public outreach and created a short list of names after deciding the new name should honor Native and Indigenous communities. According to a PP&R announcement, the committee also recommended additional outreach to these communities to help narrow the list.
Portland Parks & Recreation is contracting with Kimimela Consulting, a local Indigenous engagement consultant, to plan engagement with local Native and Indigenous communities over the next few months. An announcement will be made when a new, permanent name for the park is approved.
The pool opens for the season on June 21, and closes on August 27, 2023.
—Valeurie Friedman
Questions, comments, suggestions? Let us know.