Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office

10/21/2026

Here are some reminders for International Pronouns Day.
1. Pronouns are not "preferred," they are simply who you are.
2. Everybody has pronouns that they like to be called by, not just trans and non-binary people.
3. It's polite to ask someone's pronouns, one-on-one, for example: “Can I just check, what pronouns do you use?”
4. We're all learning. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it, apologize quickly, correct yourself, and move on with the conversation.

10/20/2026

Please share with your networks!

You know your community’s strengths and the challenges that deserve greater attention. Bring that perspective to the Oregon Commission on Black Affairs.

We’re seeking Commissioner applications from across Oregon and especially applicants from Eastern and Western Oregon. Whether you live in a rural community, a small town, or a city, your perspective matters.

Apply at the link in comments.

10/16/2026

The Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office holds space for everyone grieving in the wake of yesterday’s deadly shooting at Silver Rail Elementary School in Bend. We mourn the children and educator whose lives were taken, and our hearts are with those injured, their loved ones, and the students, families, school staff, and community facing unimaginable loss.

Salem, OR – Governor Tina Kotek ordered flags at Oregon public institutions to be flown at half-staff tomorrow October 16, 2026, from sunrise to sunset, pursuant to the United States Flag Code, in remembrance of those who lost their lives on October 15, 2026, at Silver Rail Elementary School.

10/13/2026

Sharad Navratri offers a time for devotion, reflection, and renewal for many Hindu families and communities. The Oregon Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs sends warm wishes to all who observe these nine nights. May your celebrations bring joy, connection, and hope.

10/12/2026

This Indigenous Peoples’ Day, the Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office honors the nine federally recognized Tribal nations of Oregon and the many other indigenous communities who call Oregon home. We celebrate indigenous artists, educators, legislators, advocates, workers, and leaders; and the generations sustaining languages, knowledge, and community connections. We celebrate their contributions today and throughout the year.

10/08/2026

LGBTQIA2S+ history connects generations of people who have challenged discrimination, built community, and advocated for the freedom to live openly and safely.

This October, we honor those contributions and support an Oregon where people of every sexual orientation and gender identity are treated with dignity and respect.

10/06/2026

Every worker deserves respect, fair opportunity, and room to grow. The Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office celebrates workers with disabilities and affirms the importance of access and belonging, especially during National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

10/05/2026

How does meaningful Language Access affect public health? In this video, Kaj Jensen explains one of many successes to address inequitable health outcomes for Oregonians of color.

A new report is available from the Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office detailing how you can help address racism as a public health crisis in Oregon.

Find out more by reading the report (link in comments) and take action!

10/01/2026

Congratulations to Kaj Jensen (they/them) for their new(ish) role at the Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office! Kaj is an equity-focused research and data nerd who is passionate about community engagement. After working on the HB 4052 (2022) health equity team with the agency since 2023, they are thrilled to join the team permanently as the Operations and Policy Analyst.

“Supporting the work of the Commissions gives me an opportunity to bring together community leaders, state agencies, and frontline workers to identify problems and work towards solutions that center the lived experiences of those most impacted. I’m honored to do work that makes my community and the State of Oregon a better, more inclusive place for all.”

10/01/2026

Please join us in welcoming our new Public Affairs Specialist, Ellen Blessings Bakira! Ellen (she/her) brings experience in project management and community engagement to the Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office. Originally from Zimbabwe and raised in Oregon, she's excited to connect with communities across the state, build meaningful relationships, and help create opportunities for people to share their experiences and perspectives.