Governor Tina Kotek ordered flags at Oregon public institutions to be flown at half-staff tomorrow March 17, 2026, pursuant to the United States Flag Code, 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. 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.

"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,” Governor Kotek said. “Oregon is a better place because of Senator Gordly’s tireless work to improve public education, access to mental health care, and fairness within our criminal justice system. Her legacy is a beacon for those who follow in her footsteps.”

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