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About OCHA

Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs (OCHA)

Monday, October 10, 2024, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

The public is invited to attend.  To attend CLICK HERE


Our vision:

We serve the people of Oregon to empower and support Latinos through our special roles as policy advisors to Oregon state policy makers and leaders. The OCHA is a catalyst that empowers partnerships between state government and Hispanic communities in rural and urban areas to ensure success for all Latinos by addressing issues at the policy level.   

Our mission: 

Organized in its current role under Governor Atiyeh, and serving 7 administrations, the mission of the Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs is to work toward economic, social, political and legal equality for Oregon´s Hispanic population.

Our principles and Values:

  • Equity for Hispanic Oregonians in jobs and the economy, education, health, safety, family stability, environment, and civic engagement.
  • Equal treatment and protection against discrimination.
  • Access to helpful information on services and available resources.
  • Working in partnership on research and policy analysis of longstanding issues and barriers to success within the Hispanic community statewide.
  • Inclusion of viewpoints of the Hispanic community in policy making at the state level.
  • Celebration of and awareness about the contributions and achievements of Hispanic Oregonians.

Our Statutory Goals and Strategic Priorities

  • Advocate for equitable policies assuring the success of Latino and Hispanic Oregonians at the state level.
  • Engage community and state partners to promote equity for Latinos statewide.
  • Study and analyze issues affecting the Hispanic community statewide and recommend policy remedies to state policy makers.
  • Grow and develop leaders the Hispanic community at the state level in all branches.
  • Increase the viability and visibility of the contributions and achievements of Hispanic Oregonians statewide.


Our Bylaws - CLICK HERE


OCHA is actively engaged in its statutory work focused on 7 Strategic Priorities each biennium.  These are:
  1. Education
  2. Jobs and the economy
  3. Healthcare
  4. Justice, safety and policing
  5. Stable families and housing
  6. Environmental Justice/Equity
  7. Civic engagement

View our Biennium Report:  CLICK HERE for 2021-23 Biennium Report

Meet the Commissioners

Portland, OR
Isaiah Katya Butler is a proud Latin Indigenous queer femme and neurodivergent activist, community organizer, instructor, and business owner. Over the last 5 years, they owned and operated a BIPOC/LGBTQ+/femme/neurodivergent centric company called Klip Klop Events and Productions, which provides event, media and resourcing/advocacy services for those communities in  Portland! They have produced hundreds of events, raised thousands of dollars, and especially over the last three years, has provided resources, media accessibility and mutual aid for hundreds of individuals.

And as a purveyor of community engagement and creativity, they strongly believe that community, health and activism is best when it's multi faceted, inclusive and unconventional! They prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusivity and foster a variety spaces, leaders and organizations that are safe, mindful and celebrate our differences and potentials for the inherent good, abundance, and success in everyone!

Motto: The future is bright with you in it!  

Las Cruces, NM
Christina was born in Las Cruces, NM in October of 1973, the second oldest of five siblings. She was raised mostly by her mother on the poor side of town, and while they didn't have much, they were well-cared for. Christina graduated from Las Cruces High School before pursuing a degree in finance in college. However, she had to leave college to work and help support her family.

Christina started working for a small loan company before being hired by a local non-profit organization that assisted individuals with barriers to employment through a state-sponsored on-the-job training program. Although she has worked in customer service, retail, and caregiving, she found her passion in working to help others.

In 2017, Christina moved to Oregon and enrolled in Lane Community College to complete her degree in Business Administration in 2020. Soon after graduating, she was hired by the Oregon Employment Department in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance division before transferring to the Central Trade Act Unit, where she currently provides case management services to individuals who have lost their jobs due to foreign trade. She advocates for these individuals to help them get the necessary training and find suitable employment. In addition to her job, Christina is also pursuing a certification in data analytics.

Christina has completed a leadership cohort with Basic Rights Oregon and is currently enrolled in a Leadership Lab sponsored by the Oregon Employment Department.

During her free time, Christina enjoys working on crafts, spending time with her partner and pets, reading, and journaling. She is also learning to sew and paint with acrylics. Christina is a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Loyal Order of Moose, where she volunteers her time whenever possible.

Looking toward the future, Christina plans to complete a degree in Public Administration and continue working to improve the lives of Oregonians.

Bend

​Born during a directorship and raised in the aftermath of military occupation, Joanne learned from an early age that each individual has power to impact the community they live in.  As a child she grew up in rural Panama at her grandparents’ home where she saw from her elders resiliency, ingenuity, self determination, love for family, friends and community.  Later on during her teens she lived in the city of Panama where she graduated from the Colegio de la Salle.

At the turn of the century she left her home in search of freedom and safety to be the most authentic and fullest version of herself and since then she has advocated for underrepresented communities in a variety of ways.  Her children are beloved teachers, mentors and partners who have inspired her work within a variety of organizations and networks where she has led organizing efforts across Oregon to support Immigrants, LGBTQ2S+ and women’s rights.  Joanne learned to love poetry from her father and she continues to enjoy writing, daydreaming and envisioning possibilities. 


Redmond

My name is Josefina Nury Riggs. I arrived in United States from Venezuela on July 4, 1995, with my son Zydlei who was 3 years old.   We lived in El Paso, Texas for over a year and then moved to Troutdale, Oregon.
 
My son and I went through many circumstances and obstacles, and it was a difficult time for us.  I met my husband Bill while living in Gresham and after several years of being together, we decided to move to Redmond.
 
Since arriving in the US, I have worked as a volunteer at Head Start, Cascade Aids Project (Apoyo Latino) and Catholic Charities.  While living in Central Oregon, I became an activist for CAUSA, Jobs with Justice, Strong Voice and I am a Board member of Rural Organizing Project (ROP).

I began working as a Personal Support Worker and a member of SEIU local 503.  I have participated in different activities related to the union and the rights of people who, like me, volunteer to aid people with disabilities.  In my case, I have spent 4 years working with children in need and in particular, my current client, who is very special to me. I will be teaching a workshop about Alzheimer and other dementias in Central Oregon, part of a program from Alzheimer’s Association.
 
My path to the US is not that different from those who emigrate from other countries or from those who seek a safe place to live, work or develop as individuals.
 
I enjoy work for the community and with my background and experience I will like to work more close with the Latino community and serve as Commission of Hispanic Affair.
 
I was running for Redmond City Council in the last election period 2018, and it was a good experience for me and one way or another I will continue my work with my community in here or in a different level.

Salem

​Nancy Ayala holds a degree in Communication Sciences with a focus on photography and digital advertising. Currently, she is engaged in work within the realms of radio and digital media, where she specializes in crafting content strategies tailored to the Spanish-speaking community across Oregon. Before relocating to the Willamette Valley, she carved out a professional career in Mexico City,  gaining invaluable experience with companies like SAP, Grupo Imagen, and various advertising agencies. Her journey has been marked by a transition from journalism to content creation, during which she has assisted businesses and community organizations, such as Radio Poder 98.3 FM and Mano a Mano Family Center, in connecting with the Hispanic market. Her strategies extend beyond language, encompassing culture and trends to foster a deeper connection. For those interested in delving further into her background please visit her LinkedIn profile that offers a more comprehensive overview of her curriculum. Beyond her professional pursuits, she cherishes free time, often spending it hiking with her three dogs and indulging in movies known for their captivating narratives and stunning photography. She is eager to bring her diverse experiences and expertise to the Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs to advance the well-being of our Hispanic community in Oregon or as she likes to say 'oregonianos'.​

Bend

Dr. Melina M. Moran, DNP, APRN, FNP-C is a highly accomplished and board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in addiction medicine, primary care, and emergency medicine. Dr. Moran has dedicated her career to improving healthcare outcomes.

Currently, she is a Nurse Practitioner at Best Care Treatment Center, where she focuses on addiction medicine, providing essential harm reduction services, and supporting medication-assisted recovery.

Beyond her clinical role, Dr. Moran is deeply committed to health policy and community service. She has been a commissioner and former chair on the Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs since 2022. She also serves on the Oregon Health Policy Board, contributing to key healthcare workforce and primary care payment reform initiatives.

In her community involvement, Dr. Moran has been a part of the National Ski Patrol, providing year-round first aid and rescue services, and has participated in medical missions to Haiti and Nicaragua, where she helped provide essential healthcare services to underserved populations.

Dr. Moran is a dedicated healthcare professional, a passionate advocate for health equity, and a respected leader in her field. Her work continues to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and communities alike.


Ontario, Forest Grove

Gustavo is the executive director of EUVALCREE, based in Eastern Oregon, an organization that develops the social capital and leadership capacity of community members. Gustavo is appointed by Governor Kate Brown to sit on four positions as: 1) Commissioner on the Oregon Advocacy Commission-Commission on Hispanic Affairs and 2) Board Member for the Cultural Development Board for the State of Oregon-Oregon Cultural Trust, 3) Environmental Justice Council and 4) Oregon State Board of Education. He received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Neuroscience emphasis from Pacific University and is completing his Master's in Business Administration from Boise State University. In addition to continuing his education and managing a non-profit organization, Gustavo works as an independent consultant supporting businesses to improve their economies of scale, strategize to develop competitive advantage and increase business visibility.​

Portland

Ozzie is an artist, a problem solver, and a change agent. Trained as an Environmental Scientist and as an Architect, Ozzie has spent his 25-year career journey dedicated to advancing the practice of sustainable and equitable development in communities throughout the US and Latin America. Using his background in the performing arts, Ozzie utilizes story, music, and narrative style to humanize even the most technical subject matter and capture the imaginations of clients and audiences alike. 

Ozzie has worked in the construction and design industry throughout his career. He has been involved in sustainable design projects, equitable contracting, and now owns his own consulting practice dedicated to helping clients implement strategies to confront the challenges posed by changes in technology, policy, and culture. In addition to running his own consulting practice—P3 Consulting—Ozzie serves as the Board President for Trimet, Portland’s regional transportation authority.​



Salem

​

Born and raised in Oregon, Patricia Martinez is a Mexican American Latina of Indigenous roots. Her parents immigrated to this country from Mexico City and Guanajuato. Patricia’s journey in the workforce began in the fields at age 7. She was given a glimpse of her parent’s efforts to sustain a life in the US and was driven by their work ethic and dreams to obtain a higher education and pursue a career. 


Patricia was the first in her family to attend a University and in 2014 she graduated with a Master’s degree in Social Work with a Clinical focus. Throughout her career, Patricia has held positions supporting school districts to create mental health programs in rural communities focusing on the BIPOC population, implementation of trauma informed practices, organized and directed leadership and administration in the establishment of racial equity trainings, policies and regulations, all while gathering the voices of the students and families of the community to drive the work. In 2018, Patricia developed an equity curriculum which would give primarily BIPOC students, the opportunity to build community in a predominately white district, and lead racial equity work in their school, while receiving credit towards graduation. In 2019 she received her LCSW and continued to work independently. 


Patricia is currently a clinical supervisor for MSW students, continues to provide mental health services, and is a crisis and trauma responder to several business establishments in Salem, Portland, Hillsboro, Eugene, Corvallis, Albany, and surrounding areas. Patricia also conducts mental health and equity consultation to leadership and Human Resources in many of these establishments. 


Although Patricia’s professional title is Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Patricia views herself as a “light worker”. Where she spreads light in various spaces, and  has the opportunity to be a reflection to others and support the discovery of their inner light; a light that has been dimmed for some time.​


Portland, OR

Representative Ricki Ruiz, one of Oregon's youngest state legislators, proudly represents House District 50, encompassing Gresham and East Portland. Born in Portland and raised in Gresham by immigrant parents, Ricki attended Reynolds School District, becoming the first in his family to graduate high school.

He earned his B.S. in Social Entrepreneurship from Portland Community College & Warner Pacific University in 2016. As a college student, Ricki co-founded the Rockwood Initiative, securing over $100,000 to build futsal courts in the community. Elected as the youngest school board member in Reynolds School District in 2017, Ricki is now dedicated to serving the constituents of House District 50 and advancing policies in education, housing, immigration, climate, racial justice, healthcare, and the economy. As the Co-Chair of the Oregon BIPOC Caucus, Ricki successfully secured several budget allocations, including $5 million for Individual Development Accounts and funding for initiatives like Water Equity, Employment Related Day Care, Albina Vision Trust, and others.

He currently serves as the Chair of the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education and the House Committee and vice-chair of the House Committee on Higher Education. He is a member of the Committee on Economic Development and Small Business.


Aloha

​WLnsvey (wins-vay) Campos represents Oregon Senate District 18 which includes Aloha, South Hillsboro, and Beaverton. Wlnsvey was raised in Bandon, Oregon by a single father in a low-income household. As the proud daughter of immigrants, she was confronted as a child with the disparity between those who were afforded opportunities and those who were not, regardless of how hard they worked. Senator Campos previously represented Oregon House District 28. When she first assumed office on January 11, 2021, she became the youngest woman ever elected to the Oregon House of Representatives. In 2022, she was elected to the Oregon State Senate, becoming the youngest State Senator in Oregon history. In addition to her position as a legislator, she has formerly worked as a housing case manager and currently works to support school-based health systems in her second job.

Senator Campos has championed progressive policies that center the most vulnerable Oregonians. She has worked to expand access to healthcare, address food insecurity, and tackle issues tied to housing instability. As the former Vice Chair of the House Housing Committee, she has helped to allocate hundreds of millions of dollars in financial assistance to landlords, tenants, and community organizers to address the State’s housing crisis. As the current co-chair of the Ways and Means Human Services subcommittee, she has prioritized investments in behavioral health, community-based care services, and early childhood resources.​​


OCHA Statute

Public Records Requests (PRR)

The Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office (OACO) responds to requests for public records in the general way described in the Oregon Department of Administrative Services' (DAS) Public Records Requests policy (pdf).

The DAS Public Records Requests Fees and Charges policy outlines the fees the department charges for records, and the process the agency uses to fulfill requests.

Please choose one of the following methods to request public records from OACO:
1. Email your request to Terrence Saunders, Interim Executive Director with "PRR" included in the subject line: terrence.saunders@oac.oregon.gov

OR

2. Mail a written request to this address:

Oregon Advocacy Commissions Office
PO Box 17550
Portland, OR 97217



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