Bill Naito and the Historic Structures He Preserved: Erica Naito-Campbell & Book Signing

Bill Naito’s name became synonymous with civic leadership, whether it was growing Portland’s urban canopy, revitalizing its downtown, or preserving historic buildings. The son of Japanese immigrants, Bill had to overcome the emotional trauma of a difficult childhood followed by the racism of World War II. Learn about Bill's life and how he became one of Portland's greatest changemakers, with a particular focus on the historic buildings that he preserved. At the forefront of the movement, the National Trust for Historic Preservation called him "an individual who truly made a difference in preservation, in short, a preservation hero." Presented with video and lots of pictures, the presentation will cover the entirety of Bill's life and a large amount of Portland's history in the process.

Erica Naito-Campbell was born in Portland, Oregon and grew up next door to her Grandma and Grandpa Naito, who instilled in her progressive values of social justice and equality for all, as well as a profound personal connection with nature. She followed in her grandfather’s footsteps and attended Reed College, where she cemented a passion for learning, history, and the well-crafted word. Recently, she has worked on Oregon Rises Above Hate, an annual event highlighting AANHPI issues and community. She can often be found birdwatching and cultivating her backyard into a climate resilient refuge for animals and insects alike.