Honoring our youth is an important way to strengthen our communities, and reclaim the village concept.

The Black Baccalaureate is not intended to replace a student’s school commencement, rather it provides an additional acknowledgment that speaks to the unique experiences and accomplishments of Black students.

This community event is a time of reflection, celebration, and dedication. We appreciate the teachers and school officials who helped their students reach this stepping stone. However, it is Black community members that have given birth, loved, supported, and prayed for them when their environment tells them that they aren’t good enough or smart enough. Hence, it is the Black community to which many students return as committed and competent individuals, ready to pick up the torch of leadership and reach back as they climb.

Since 2016 BEAM has joined several Black community-based organizations to continue the tradition of the Bridge Builder Inc. by bringing parents, community, and educators together to acknowledge the achievements of Black graduates throughout the Portland Metro area and more.

We're here for you, we support you, we believe in you.