Portraits of Oregon - Jimmie

Hello, I’m Jimmie Matthew Berguin, also known as Officiant Jimmie!

Greg Tate said, “Being Black in America is a science-fiction experience”. As both a black man and a fan of all things sci-fi, this quote hits twice as hard.

I have lived in the PNW since the age of 5. For almost my entire life, my race has been the first thing everyone pointed out about me. Standing out in every room I entered, usually as the only black kid, existing in glaringly white spaces. To be a POC in the Pacific Northwest felt like an incredibly alienating experience. To be a representative of all black existence for those who, most of the time, have never met a black person before. Then being met with disappointment with others quick to point out that I didn’t talk, dress, or act “black enough”.

I have spent my life trying to understand my place. Trying to understand my purpose. Being unable to find spaces where I was allowed to just “exist”. As the years went on and I found my life’s calling in becoming a Wedding/Elopement Officiant; I started to understand my “why”. Rather than look for a place where I could be my authentic self, I would encourage all those looking to be themselves to just be who they were with me. Whether it was people of diverse multicultural backgrounds, those who identify as LGBTQIA+, or humans looking to be human; be who you are and tell me who that is.

My partner and I are raising our two children to be kind to all humans from all walks of life. Making it a point to encourage humanist values and celebrating every individual who we come in contact with. By creating a foundation of love and using that outlook to spread more connectivity in our community, environment, and everywhere we end up on earth. No matter where life may lead me, I’m ready to meet all individuals with love and acceptance.