In our fourth annual Oregon Woman issue, we celebrate individuals who lead in every sphere of life, from law enforcement and public office to social services and the arts. Women make up more than half of Oregon’s population—here's how they’re reshaping our state.

In This Feature:

Meet Judith Arcana, a Pioneer of '70s-Era Underground Abortion Work

Before Roe v. Wade, a group called Jane served Chicago women. Arcana, now a writer living in Portland, was part of that clandestine network.

04/24/2018 By Rebecca Jacobson

Danielle Outlaw Is the First Black Woman to Lead the Portland Police

The 41-year-old talks racial tensions, raising two sons, and doughnuts.

04/24/2018 By Fiona McCann

Fabi Reyna Is Changing the Guitar Industry with She Shreds

Portland is home to the world’s only print magazine devoted to women guitarists and bassists. But it’s only the first step in its founder’s plan to destroy bro-rock culture.

04/24/2018 By Kelly Clarke

How Brenda Tracy Combats Rape Culture in College Sports

After enduring a violent sexual assault 20 years ago, the Portlander now travels the country, speaking to athletes and advocating for change.

04/24/2018 By Jason Cohen

Portlander Ana del Rocío Shakes Up the Civic Scene

From serving on the David Douglas school board to spearheading statewide efforts to elect more progressive candidates of color, the 31-year-old works for change.

04/24/2018 By Emilly Prado

Women Are Running for Office in Record Numbers in 2018

Meet four Oregon women stepping into the arena for the first time.

04/24/2018 By Eden Dawn

10 Best New Books by Oregon Women

From dystopian fiction to poetry inspired by Frank Ocean, add these volumes to your shelf.

04/24/2018 By Rebecca Jacobson and Fiona McCann

11 Best New Songs by Oregon Women

Raspy rock, dance pop, and motormouth hip-hop fuel this must-blast playlist.

04/24/2018 By Rebecca Jacobson

What Will It Take to Get More Women in Construction?

Only 7 percent of construction workers in our state are women. Oregon Tradeswomen founder Connie Ashbrook wants to up that number.

04/24/2018 By Lily Raff McCaulou

Some of Portland’s Coolest Stuff Is Lady-Made

From erotic selfie quilts to colorful tote bags, women run this city's maker scene.

04/24/2018 By Kelly Clarke

Hair and Makeup Maven, Renegade Artist … and Sea Captain?

Get to know Portlander Randi Whipple.

04/24/2018 By Eden Dawn

Get to Know These 4 Standout Women in Portland's Culinary Scene

Food industry folks gush about some of their favorite local ladies.

04/24/2018 By Karen Brooks and Kelly Clarke

30 Women-Run Portland Restaurants We Love

Who run the (food) world? These ladies.

03/20/2017 By Eat Beat Team