Coalition of Communities of Color

WELCOME TO COMMUNITY REPORTS BY CCC’S RESEARCH JUSTICE INSTITUTE! WE’VE LAUNCHED THIS NEW SERIES TO PROVIDE A CLOSER LOOK AT OUR RESEARCH EFFORTS AND HELP DEMYSTIFY THE WORLD OF DATA. in this edition, our summer Intern Meilin Beloney unpacks key terms and topics at the heart of research justice.  Research justice 101: Key terms and readings to know

“Research justice” can sound like a big concept, but at its core it’s about valuing the lived experiences and desires of marginalized community members as essential pieces of evidence and data. Incorporating it into your research practices means ensuring meaningful community participation in every step of the research process. Furthermore, research justice centers the desires of communities as key to understanding their circumstances, rather than relying on narratives that present communities as broken or as problems (i.e., deficit narratives). 

To gain a deeper understanding of what research justice is, the Research Justice Institute looks to the work of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) scholars and researchers. Read on to unpack four key terms, along with some suggested readings, that are integral to understanding research justice.

1.Research oppression

To understand research justice, it is important to start by unpacking what research justice is not. As pointed out by DataCenter in their 2015 report “Introduction to Research Justice,” there is a power imbalance within research practices, wherein dominant institutions control the production of knowledge, resulting in marginalized communities being unable to control or access information produced about them. Research oppression occurs when community members are viewed solely as subjects of research, rather than as active participants in the research process (DataCenter 2015). Social science research has long been used as a tool of oppression. In his book Thicker than Blood: How Racial Statistics Lie, Tufuku Zuberi points to the role that white supremacy plays in our understanding of society. White logic grants objectivity to white scholars while devaluing BIPOC experience and expertise, often framing it as too subjective or anecdotal. Community members’ lived experiences are dismissed as invalid to the research process, leading to dominant institutions controlling the data and the stories that are told about marginalized communities, without the community’s input (Zuberi 2001). When we refuse to use white supremacist logics and tools in our research practices, we envision an alternative to research oppression: research justice. Research justice places community experiences and desires at the forefront of the research process, uplifting community members as integral to every step. Research justice is a process and platform that affirms that marginalized communities are the experts in their own lives.

2.Dominant data vs community data

It is important to understand the distinction between dominant data and community data, and how each may be utilized to advance the aims of research justice. Dominant data is gathered by dominant institutions such as governments and universities, and is often gathered in service of the dominant institution. These data are typically gathered using large population-level surveys like the Census or through the collection of information an individual provides in exchange for a service (i.e., administrative data). Dominant data, which are often quantitative, can highlight trends within populations, but often perpetuates deficit narratives. Numbers and statistics do not always capture the social, political, economic, and historical contexts of the data, often leading to conclusions that lack nuance and place the blame on marginalized communities for their own marginalizations. For example, without the context of institutional racism, a statistic proving the high amount of police violence in Black neighborhoods might imply that Black neighborhoods are inherently dangerous, or that Black people themselves are violent, rather than acknowledging the many social and political factors that lead to over-policing of Black communities (Lanius 2015). 

On the other hand, a key aspect of community data is that it is contextual. At CCC, we define community data as evidence generated by communities about their everyday lives, realities, and desires. Examples of evidence can include numbers, words, art, music, maps, and stories. Community data is collected, interpreted, and used on the terms of the community. By working with communities to understand their everyday experiences, we can gain a true sense of community needs and desires.

3.Community-led research

Community control is a key tenet of research justice. Research justice uplifts and values  marginalized communities as experts of their own lived experiences and, therefore, as leading experts in how to improve their everyday realities and overall well-being. When conducting research with marginalized communities, it is important to not only include community members, but to treat them as authorities in the research process. Trust and collaboration between researchers and community members are paramount, as demonstrated through the work of anthropologist Mariana Mora. Mora worked with a Zapatista community in Chiapas, Mexico to shape her research on Zapatista politics, autonomy, and self-determination. In her article “The Production of Knowledge on the Terrain of Autonomy: Research as a Topic of Political Debate”, Mora takes readers through her research process, describing the ways in which community members helped to shape and evaluate her research at every step, from research design to reviewing drafts of her 2017 book, Kuxlejal Politics: Indigenous Autonomy, Race, and Decolonizing Research in Zapatista Communities. Mora’s experience highlights the importance of community-led research, and provides a key example of how research can be designed and conducted in collaboration with community members.

4.Damage- vs desire-centered research

In an open letter to communities, researchers, and educators, Eve Tuck, Unangax̂ scholar, calls for a moratorium on damage-centered research – research that documents pain and oppression in an attempt to leverage change for marginalized communities. Tuck argues that damage-centered research frames marginalized communities as depleted and broken, perpetuating deficit narratives and defining communities solely by their marginalization. Tuck instead proposes a desire-based framework for research, in which lived realities are acknowledged alongside hopes and visions for the future (Tuck 2009). Research justice should employ a desire-based framework in order to avoid framing marginalized communities solely by what they lack, and to acknowledge the full spectrum of inequality, oppression, wisdom, hope, and the potential for change that exists within all communities.

Check out RJI’s reading library to dig deeper into these concepts and more:

These concepts and readings provide an overview of the key components of research justice, and it is only the tip of the iceberg. To continue exploring these ideas and access a wider range of resources, we encourage you to visit our growing RJI Zotero library. 

A powerful night of community, strength & supporting racial justice

State Sen. Khanh Pham sharing meaningful remarks as our featured speaker. Watch the full speech on our YouTube!

“Building community is what gets us through these times,” shared State Senator Khanh Pham to a packed room at this year’s Summer Soirée on June 13.

“It’s being in relationship with people who share our vision and our values – that is what helps us move out of fear and into collective action.”

At the Coalition of Communities of Color, this belief is at the heart of our mission. Our theme Rooted in Resilience was an important reminder that our strength is most powerful when shared, and grows when we’re together – even in the hard times, like the one we’re facing now.

We are so grateful to everyone who joined and supported our 2025 fundraising gala. We filled the night with a festive and meaningful atmosphere, with tunes by DJ Just Jeff, and folks enjoyed bites from our diverse selection of vendors that were both culturally rich and delicious.

A special thank you to our featured speaker, State Senator Khanh Pham, and our guest speakers, Mayor of Portland Keith Wilson and Oregon Community Foundation’s (OCF) Michael McIntosh, for their powerful and inspiring remarks.

Watch State Sen. Pham’s full speech at CCC’s Summer Soirée here!

View Full Album A Successful Summer SoirÉe

We extend a heartfelt thank you to OCF for being our presenting sponsor and for their support in helping make this night a success.

Together, with the power of community, we raised over $270,000 to sustain our work of transforming systems so that every Oregonian – across race, gender, or zip code – can thrive. At a time when our values are being attacked, your support means more than ever. Thank you!

Thank you to everyone who joined our CCC team at the Summer Soirée!

Because of these generous donations, we will be able to continue our efforts to provide research grounded in lived experience, solutions shaped by community voices, and policies that build a more just and resilient environment for those facing the first and worst of the climate crisis. See our work in action: watch our MADE for Health Justice video.

Didn’t have a chance to donate but want to support? Click here to make a donation today. Every donation makes a difference.

We hope you will join us next year as we celebrate our 25th anniversary! Details will be shared as they become available. Subscribe to our email list to stay in the loop.

Take a look at our event details:

Our special night took place at the OHSU Robertson Life Sciences Building. We are so grateful to OHSU for being our venue sponsor and for generously supporting our event.

A special shoutout to our host and vendors:

• Poison Waters as our Emcee and Auctioneer

• Devil’s Food Catering

• Plant Based Papi

• Annam VL

• DJ Just Jeff

And a special thank you to those who donated items for our raffle prizes and auction packages!

Thank you to our Summer Soirée sponsors!




Support CCC

**This opening is now closed. We are not accepting any further applications at this time. Thank you.

Applications due by August 27. Click here to view a full description of the job post.

JOIN OUR TEAM: The Coalition of Communities of Color (CCC) is excited to announce a new role within our Research Justice Institute! We’re looking to hire a dedicated and experienced Data Systems Administrator to lead the development and management of a robust, community-led, environmental justice data system. This role requires someone with technical expertise in developing data systems with a strong focus on equity.

Position Overview

As the Data Systems Administrator, you will lead the development, management, security, and accessibility of our community-led environmental justice data system. This is a first-of-its-kind opportunity to ensure that qualitative and quantitative data collected by community-based organizations is stored and made available in a way that supports equitable policy decision-making while respecting community ownership.  

We are seeking a data platform engineer and community-minded leader that understands both data systems and the ethical considerations of handling dominant institution quantitative and community-generated qualitative data, and shares our values and commitments to research and data justice. 

The Data Systems Administrator will play an integral role in advancing CCC’s Modernizing Anti-Racist Data Ecosystems (MADE) local level data ecosystem that will advance regional responses and approaches to extreme weather and climate justice needs. They will lead the development, implementation, and management of CCC’s environmental justice data systems, including selection and oversight of technical vendor(s) and building the back end of our data platform. They will also play a key support role in the Research Justice Institute’s quantitative research and data projects and reports.  

For complete details about responsibilities, qualifications and compensation, view the full job posting here.

About the Coalition of Communities of Color

Formed in 2001, the Coalition of Communities of Color is an alliance of culturally specific, community-based organizations engaged in collective action for racial justice. We work to improve outcomes for communities of color through advocacy, environmental justice, and research. Learn more about the Coalition of Communities of Color, its member organizations, and our Research Justice Institute.

TO APPLY

Please send a cover letter (max one page) and resume (max two pages) in one PDF file to HR@coalitioncommunitiescolor.org, with the subject line and file name “[Your name] — Data Systems Administrator.” 

Applications are due Wednesday, August 27.

View Full Job Post

In 2025 the Coalition of Communities of Color worked tirelessly to champion equity and opportunity for all communities of color, immigrants and low income people. From the Oregon State legislature to local government budget processes, we've faced considerable hurdles but also achieved important victories.

State Legislative Session: Facing Fiscal Headwinds

The 2025 Oregon Legislative Session was characterized by fiscal uncertainty, stemming from a state budget shortfall and concerns over potential federal cuts. This challenging environment led to substantial budget reductions, with communities of color and low-income individuals disproportionately affected. Key state agencies, including the Oregon Department of Education, Department of Early Learning and Care, and Oregon Housing and Community Services, experienced significant cuts to vital programs such as student success initiatives, childcare, and emergency rent assistance.

Despite these statewide challenges, we celebrate the passage and funding of critical initiatives like the Immigrant Justice Package, which includes Universal Representation and Farmworker Disaster Relief, and the Fair Housing for All initiative. These successes underscore the power of focused advocacy even in difficult times.

Learning Opportunity: Water Justice Legislative Recap and Celebration

How did this year’s Legislative Session impact water justice? Join Oregon Water Futures July 29th 12:00-1:00PM in a conversation with environmental justice advocates to celebrate water policy wins, get real about challenges and opportunities, and hear personal experiences about policy and advocacy work. This panel is for anyone interested in Oregon’s water justice future, frontline advocates, and community members. Our sessions are accessible to those new to policy and is a great time to connect with others!

When: Tuesday, July 29 at 12 pm

Reigster here: Bit.ly/456SdXY

Panel Includes: Verde, Crag Law Center, Oregon Just Transition Alliance, and the Joint Water Caucus.

City of Portland: Defending Essential Programs for Communities of Color

During the City of Portland budget process, CCC and its members' advocacy was crucial in defending the Civic Life Diversity and Civic Leadership program, which initially faced severe cuts exceeding $600,000. Through dedicated advocacy, CCC and culturally specific organizations successfully restored $179,000 in funds for the program. Additionally, our collective voice played a vital role in advocating for the protection of Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF) and Parks funding, underscoring our unwavering commitment to equitable and well-resourced community programs

Multnomah County: Securing Vital Investments

The Coalition of Communities of Color and our dedicated members achieved significant wins during the recent Multnomah County budget process! Through strategic advocacy and successful amendments, we were able to defend crucial programs and secure vital funding for initiatives such as Voter Outreach and Education, School Based Mental Health, Homeless Employment Programs, Housing Immigration Legal Services, and Culturally-Specific Community Food Systems. We remain optimistic about continuing to engage with the county to ensure equitable investments that truly serve all communities.

Looking Ahead: Protecting Our Progress

CCC staff joined our member Unite Oregon on their 2025 Day of Action in.Salem.

Our community's commitment to equity, inclusion, and opportunity is currently at risk due to attacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and potential federal funding cuts that could impact vital services provided by the City of Portland and Washington County like transportation and housing. We've seen this manifest in Washington County's struggle to uphold an Equity Resolution and sanctuary laws in conflict with federal executive orders, and there's an ongoing need to protect programs like Multnomah County Preschool for All that increase access for communities of color and low income people.

This situation demands action: we must fiercely defend DEI initiatives, advocate for the codification of sanctuary protections in local governments, and actively work to strengthen the Preschool for All program by ensuring continued funding and community involvement in its advisory processes.

Your continued participation is crucial to safeguard our progress and build a future where equity, opportunity, and safety are guaranteed for everyone. We urge you to attend public meetings, contact elected officials, share information, and engage with community organizations. Together, we can continue to make a difference. If you have any questions or would like to get in touch, reach out to our Advocacy Manager Alex Riedlinger at Alex@coalitioncommunitiescolor.org.

Welcome to Community Reports by CCC’s Research Justice Institute! We’ve launched this new series to provide a closer look at our research efforts and help demystify the world of data. Click here to learn more about our team, and be sure to revisit our blog for upcoming posts. recognizing PRIDE month & Centering Community-Driven Stories and Data Ecosystems

Research Justice Institute: A BIPOC and Queer-Led Team

The Research Justice Institute (RJI) at the Coalition of Communities of Color is a BIPOC team who all identify as queer. As researchers, we hold firsthand experiences of how our bodies, knowledges, and languages are dismissed and denied existence. Communities of color and their diverse lived experiences continuously experience these forms of harm and erasure. In our research and data practices, we rectify aspects of this harm by creating the conditions for meaningful community participation throughout the research process. We value and rely on the power of lived experience evidence as essential data for decision-making. We craft desire as central to our communities' futures so that they are seen and heard as a whole. 

From these perspectives, RJI works for a future where BIPOC advocacy embraces and integrates queer community members in the pursuit of data justice. 

Sharing Data Through Storytelling for Queer and Trans Futures

A recent project with South Coast Health Equity Coalition, a BIPOC and queer-led team, revealed powerful stories of how community care networks are critical for finding gender affirming care—from being accompanied by trusted peers and family members to learning about providers through word-of-mouth. These narratives remind us that data is more than numbers. It is about people, their stories, and highlighting practices of community care. Pride Month amplifies the presence of our intersecting identities and we celebrate by posing narrative shifts for BIPOC, queer and trans futures in Oregon. Sharing these narratives provides stories and possibilities for future generations. 

Updates from our Modernized Anti-Racist Data Ecosystems (MADE) for Health Justice Convening

Our work continues to extend beyond the state and we are thrilled to share updates from our second annual MADE for Health Justice Spring Convening in San Diego, where we connected with partners nationwide to advance MADE for Health Justice. Unlike traditional data systems, the Portland MADE Data Ecosystem is by and for the community, prioritizing qualitative data that captures lived experiences. It aims to advance health equity and environmental justice in the region by building a community-led data system to ensure that the experiences of those most impacted by climate-related threats, BIPOC and other frontline communities, are central to decision-making. This summer we are finalizing privacy policies and more to bring this vision to life. 

Welcome, Meilin! Meet CCC’s Research Intern

We are thrilled to welcome Meilin Beloney who will be interning with us this summer. Meilin joins us as we ramp up various projects. They will be working closely with our team members and participating in trainings and discussions to deepen their understanding of research justice frameworks. Their internship with us will help amplify both our work and their growth as a researcher. 

Coming Soon: BIPOC Researcher Network

This August, we are launching our BIPOC Researcher Network—a space for researchers of color to collaborate, share resources, and redefine equitable data practices. Want to help shape it? A short survey will be coming soon to gather input on priorities and challenges. Stay tuned to our Research updates featuring network details and ways to get involved. 

Together, we’re transforming data justice by centering BIPOC Oregonians, including identities that intersect with queer communities into all of our work, during Pride month and every month. 

Hello Coalition of Communities,

In times of crisis, it's those who stay calm, think clearly, and remain determined who often emerge stronger. As the Coalition of Communities of Color, we believe that both we and the communities we serve must embody this steadiness and resolve, especially now, as we face escalated attacks to our rights and livelihoods. Together, we can navigate the noise and uncertainty with purpose and clarity.

Local and state racial equity and justice matters—while the onslaught of federal actions will have profound impacts on the lives of Oregonians, we remain hopeful because so many of the policies and programs that shape the lives of BIPOC Oregonians are implemented at the local level. Mandates and political pressure to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion means it’s all the more important that we protect these values here in Oregon.

CCC is existentially committed to protecting and advancing those values, always. One modest way we're doing this is through releasing a video series that will highlight key actions from our research justice report, Cultivating Belonging in Clackamas County. We will continue to work alongside our partners to inform and share and involve you, the community and our constituents, about efforts that will protect and empower our communities.

Taking care of yourself, your loved ones, and your community is just as important as staying informed. We hope we can all find ways, big and small, to feel connected, protected and cared for.

Warm regards and ever at your service, 

Marcus C. Mundy,

Executive Director

February is Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to celebrate, uplift, and honor the rich contributions of the Black community. Join us this month in celebrating in meaningful ways—by supporting Black-owned businesses, joining local events, donating to organizations making an impact, and diving deeper into the incredible stories and history that have shaped our country, including Oregon. For more than 30 years, Oregon Black Pioneers have dedicated themselves to preserving the history of Black Oregonians. Read their stories on their website and check out their upcoming events for Black History Month across the state.

Introducing Community Data 

Community-driven data is a powerful tool for shaping policies that reflect the unique needs of diverse communities, but how exactly do we identify it and understand its value? Read our new report, Introducing Community Data, to learn the principles of community data and how you can use it to improve your data systems. Targeted at a broad audience, this is an accessible primer intended for anyone interested in how to approach community data. You can download the report on our website.

Learn the principles of community data in our new report.

Community-data is at the forefront of many of our projects, including the Modernized Anti-Racist Data Ecosystem (MADE) tool we are building with local government and community partners to impact health and climate equity policies. Watch this video to learn more.

Save the Date: Summer Soirée 2025

Our Summer Soirée returns on Friday, June 13th at the OHSU Robertson Collaborative Life Sciences Building atrium, as OHSU is our Venue Sponsor this year. Stay tuned as we share more information on what to expect, and how you can purchase tickets, or become a sponsor. If you have any questions regarding our event, please contact our Development Manager, Lucero at lucero@coalitioncommunitiescolor.org.

To take a look at last year’s Summer Soirée and get a glimpse at what is to come in June. Click the link here to view our full gallery of photos from 2024.

Thank you for supporting CCC!

We want to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who made our 2024 end-of-year giving campaign such a success. Our 2024 theme, "Celebrating Stories," spotlighted the groundbreaking work happening across our programs. We're grateful to have shared this journey with you, offering a glimpse into the collective effort driving racial justice and systems change. Click here to donate and read our stories of impact of 2024.

Support Systems Change Work

On November 5th, Portland made history. With ranked-choice voting, we now have the most representative city council in Oregon’s history—one that is more reflective of Portlanders than ever before.

For the first time, East Portland, which has had little representation at the city, now has three councilors representing their diverse communities and unique concerns. The diversity of the new council is unprecedented: 5 people of color, 6 women, 3 renters, with ages ranging from 28 to 70.

Following the success of the 2024 election, we are proud to report that 91% of Portland voters found this system easy to use and that it has achieved our goal of greater representation.

This achievement didn’t happen by chance. It is the result of years of community-driven organizing, advocacy, and mobilization for systemic change.

Back in 2018, as the city prepared for its 2020 charter review, the Coalition of Communities of Color (CCC) advocacy staff began participating in research and policy development. As more established stakeholders expressed interest in building a new system, we quickly realized that if Portland's communities of color weren't at the table, no one would ensure the system worked for us and not just the status quo.

So, we stepped up. As a coalition of culturally specific organizations deeply affected by Portland’s governance, we set out to build a system that better reflected all Portland residents. In the years that followed, we held over 20 workshops to hear from BIPOC Portlanders about representation and the policy changes they wanted. We learned that a more equitable system was needed, so we advocated for an expanded city council and a new voting system where voters could rank candidates in order of support.

Working alongside many incredible partners, we successfully led the campaign to pass Measure 26-228 in November 2022, bringing these reforms to reality.

When we began, we had no dedicated grant funding for the project: donors made the launch of this work possible. We relied on grassroots contributions to fuel our work of breaking down systemic barriers for communities of color.

But this was just the beginning. We quickly pivoted to focus on the implementation of the new system, ensuring that BIPOC voters felt confident using it in the November 5th election.

As part of a comprehensive voter education effort led by our outstanding partners at Next Up, over 20 staff and volunteers canvassed neighborhoods, knocking on over 677 doors to directly connect with voters about the new system.

After we returned to the office, our group reflected on the canvassing experience. Story after story highlighted how strongly voters believed in the power of their ballot to bring about change. In a time when so much of politics is met with cynicism, these conversations were a powerful reminder of hope, especially from young BIPOC canvassers who had meaningful, real conversations with voters.

At CCC, we carry that hope forward through our mission of advancing racial justice through cross-cultural action. We know our work goes beyond a single victory or a single election—it is rooted in creating meaningful, long-lasting systemic change.

We invite you to join this legacy by contributing to this work and supporting CCC today.

Thank you to our Steering Committee for championing equity and inclusion efforts in Clackamas county.

On an early fall night, a diverse group of community leaders, local government officials, institutional partners, and members of the Coalition of Communities of Color (CCC) gathered at Clackamas Community College for a powerful evening of connection and celebration.

Cover art by Annie Hoang/ Instagram: @annie.hng

The event marked the launch of the “Cultivating Belonging in Clackamas County,” a research justice report led by the Research Justice Institute at CCC. This collaborative effort, developed over four years and guided deeply by community, focused on engaging Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) in the county to gather insights about their experiences, needs, and desires. What we found was a strong desire to have places and spaces where BIPOC communities can connect with both their own communities and cross-culturally.

This night was about much more than the completion of the report—it was about building personal connections, sharing insights, and reaffirming our collective commitment to advancing equity and inclusion in Clackamas County, despite the recent setbacks they’ve faced.

Today, we are continuing to move this work forward through a series of community-driven calls to action that support and strengthen racial equity efforts while fostering new initiatives for greater inclusion. If you’re interested in getting involved, take our mobilization survey for opportunities to advance these efforts collaboratively in Clackamas County.

TAKE further ACTION:

• Download Cultivating Belonging in Clackamas County
• Watch the Cultivating Belonging Intro Presentation
• Donate to CCC

Dr. Mira Mohsini, PhD, CCC Senior Researcher

Read our Q&A with CCC’s Dr. Mira Mohsini, PhD, lead author of “Cultivating Belonging”:

Can you share why was this report is necessary?

We often hear statements like “Oregon is so white,” “Portland is the whitest large city in the country,” “Clackamas county is the least racially and ethnically diverse county in the tri-county region.” While these statements are not false, and often spoken with good intentions, they can erase the presence of communities of color and Indigenous communities from these places. Taken as fact, these statements can stop us from asking why there are relatively fewer people of color here. This report challenges these narratives by centering the experiences and histories of communities of color in Clackamas county. 

The report is the first of its kind to tell the stories of people of color from across Clackamas county – what they care about, what changes they want to see in their communities and the institutions meant to serve them, and what a thriving present and future looks like for them. It’s  an essential body of knowledge that comprehensively takes stock of the needs and desires of communities of color, as understood and articulated on their own terms. It’s a culmination of over four years of research guided by deep relationships and led by people of color who are closest to, and have lived experiences of, some of the most pressing issues the county faces. Finally, the report turns a diversity of evidence – stories, lived experiences, and relevant statistical and geographic data – into a set of community-desired calls to action that can support existing organizing efforts for racial equity and justice and catalyze new ones.

What are some challenges that BIPOC community members expressed to you?

As we developed more and stronger relationships with Clackamas county residents, we kept hearing how disconnected people of color are from each other. They often travel to other counties to find community, to access services in their languages, to worship, and to buy culturally appropriate foods, for example. We heard that there just aren’t the opportunities and spaces to connect. We heard from youth and students of color about how adults, teachers, and school administrators don’t take their experiences of hate and discrimination seriously or don’t respond in supportive and meaningful ways. We heard about the challenges that newly arrived immigrants face with finding work, navigating bureaucratic systems, and accessing culturally responsive services. We heard from employees of color working within dominant institutions and across the county about their unaddressed and persistent experiences of discrimination, othering, and intimidations. But despite these challenges, we heard so many people of color say that they want to stay in Clackamas county and be a part of its future where everyone feels like they belong.  

Personally, what challenges did you face when completing this report?

Honestly, the hardest part was writing it. After spending four years being in relationship with so many generous and amazing people, hearing their stories, going to community events, hosting meetings with community-based organizations and dominant institution partners, organizing data collection engagements, and working to accurately interpret all this data with our steering committee members, we, the researchers, were faced with the huge responsibility of translating all this knowledge and wisdom onto the written page. The pressure was amplified because we knew we were not just writing a technical report that is driven by dominant forms of evidence, like statistics and other quantitative data. Rather, we were committed to writing the report in ways that center lived experiences and stories as trusted evidence for understanding realities and for making better decisions to address community needs and desires. This is not to say we don’t value dominant quantitative data – we understand its role in exposing disparities and holding dominant institutions accountable – but we wanted to write the report in a way that doesn’t privilege dominant data at the expense of people’s lived experiences. In writing up a research justice study – where the research is led by those most impacted by the issues being researched – we wanted to demonstrate how lived experiences and stories have the power to illuminate concerns and desired solutions. I believe we succeeded in this, but it was definitely the hardest part of this process. Ultimately, the learning that this process reaffirmed for me is to let the stories, the lived experiences, speak their truths. 

Why is this issue important to those outside of Clackamas County?

Partners and community members gathered at Clackamas Community College earlier this year to celebrate the completion of the report.

Most of us recognize the power of stories and the power of sharing our lived experiences to build and strengthen relationships, community, and a sense of belonging. We care about stories because they’re fundamentally about how people have experienced the world, continue to experience it, and desire to experience it. In other words, stories can tell us about “what was,” “what is,” and “what should be.” The power of stories is why folks should care about this report. It details what it takes to design a community-led process that centers stories in all of their complexities – telling us what’s working, what’s not, and what repair and healing mean for different communities; how to gather stories using a diversity of methods and approaches; what it looks like to pair stories with other kinds of evidence; and how to use stories responsibly to create meaningful changes. If you’ve ever wondered how to uplift the power of stories, and qualitative data broadly, this report provides one model for doing this. 

What are we doing to move the calls to action forward and how can people get involved?

We’ve been hosting calls with folks working in dominant institutions and community-based organizations and coalitions to provide guidance on what calls to action they can advance and how. Each conversation is tailored to the organization’s specific needs, access to resources, and experiences. 

We’ve also launched a mobilization survey for Clackamas county community members who are both unaffiliated and affiliated with organizations in the county. In the survey, folks can tell us which calls to action they are most interested in advancing and what (if any) organizing experience they have. We’ll use this information to organize community gatherings in 2025 to discuss strategies for mobilizing around one or several calls to action. These are also spaces to grow and strengthen community, since the lack of connection was one of the main concerns that people of color in Clackamas expressed.  

Donate to CCC

On a bright summer day, the Coalition of Communities of Color’s (CCC's) Climate and Health Coordinator stands in the blistering heat of East Portland. With barely a tree in sight—an unusual scene for a state like Oregon—it's a stark reminder of the environmental inequities that exist and vary by neighborhood. As we walked around Portland, we couldn’t help but wonder who were our communities really designed for?

At CCC, our mission is simple yet powerful: to advance racial justice through cross-cultural collaboration.

We work closely with 18 diverse and culturally-specific member organizations and a broad group of partners on a shared goal of driving meaningful change for our communities. 

One of the key ways we’re making progress collaboratively this year is through the Modernized Anti-racist Data Ecosystem (MADE) for Health Justice initiative.

MADE for Health Justice seeks to create an ecosystem rooted in community data—data that reflects the lived experiences of those most affected—to influence decision-making and address racial, health and environmental inequities in Multnomah County.

By centering the lived experiences of the community, we’re not just gathering data—we’re shaping a future where decisions are informed by those who have been historically marginalized by dominant systems.

Supporting CCC means you’ll be helping to bring this vision to life and making a real impact for climate and health justice. 

Join our mission this Giving Tuesday and make a donation today.

This year, we’re proud of the progress we’ve made, including:

• Convening an Advisory Council composed of 19 community-based organizations, alongside the City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability and Multnomah County’s Office of Sustainability and Health Department.

• Gaining a deeper understanding of local data resources and enhancing our knowledge of how government data systems operate.

• Drafting our first-ever values-based data charter.

• Supporting the City and County in preparing their systems to expand the use of community data and foster a cultural shift in how this data is viewed and utilized.

We’ve got exciting things in store for 2025, starting with the technical design and creation of our data ecosystem! Join our mailing list to stay updated for upcoming gatherings in the new year.

Support Environmental Justice

At a community meeting earlier this year, we met with and heard from different Portland residents about their experiences coping with extreme weather events: 

• A mother bundles her children in layers of clothing—long sleeves, thick sweaters, and fleece pants—while grabbing every blanket she can find to keep them warm in their home during the winter time.

• Someone else is shutting all their doors and windows, restricting themselves to only specific areas of their home to stay cool, and drawing curtains all day to block out the heat on a record-breaking summer day.

• Another person moves all their food from the fridge to their car outside when the power goes out, trying to save whatever they can.

What do these experiences have to do with environmental justice policy?

While all Oregonians are experiencing the effects of climate change, Black, Brown, and low-income communities are disproportionately enduring the consequences of more extreme weather, increasing energy costs, and growing environmental hazards. 

That’s why we are committed to amplifying the voices of those on the frontlines of the climate crisis and ensuring that community input drives policymaking decisions.

CCC’s Environmental Justice team presenting at the Environmental Grantmakers Association Retreat.

This year, we made significant strides in advancing energy justice. We remained committed to centering community voices by partnering closely with BIPOC leaders and the City of Portland to advocate for prospective tenants to have access to critical information about potential energy costs, indoor air quality risks, and access to cooling, and plan to continue our efforts in the coming years. 

CCC Climate & Health Coordinator, Santi Sanchez, presenting at the intergeneration climate justice panel hosted by the Kresge Foundation.

As a result of this collaborative work, we are now sharing best practices for deep, community-driven environmental justice policy development with other jurisdictions across the state and working to show that equitable policies must be grounded in the lived experience of the most impacted communities.

Join us: Your generosity will strengthen our efforts so that the voices of frontline communities and their experiences shape how policies are formed and resources are distributed. Make a contribution to our end of year giving campaign. Thank you!

Donate to CCC

Donate to CCC

We’re excited to launch our 2024 giving campaign: Celebrating Stories. From now through the end of the year, we’ll be sharing powerful stories that highlight our ongoing efforts to advance racial justice and drive meaningful, transformative change.

We invite you to join us on this journey. By reading, sharing, and contributing an end-of-year gift to CCC, you can help sustain and strengthen our mission. Come back every week for a new story shared!

Together, we are shaping our story for generations to come. 

Read the stories:

• CELEBRATING STORIES: REPRESENTATION MATTERS, PORTLAND MADE HISTORY
• Beyond a report, building belonging together
• Shaping a healthier future through a community-led data ecosystem
• Amplifying Community Voice in Environmental Justice Policy

Come back every week for a new story shared!

“Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,

Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,

Let us march on till victory is won.” 

Lift Every Voice and Sing by James Weldon Johnson

Tuesday left me numb, Wednesday barely functional, but today I feel resolved.

For the past few months, I had allowed myself to hope in the promise of America’s better angels. I believed that America could not and would not choose to go backwards. 

Sadly, I was wrong. But not defeated. 

Yesterday was spent in shock like many fellow Americans, who were shaken by the anxieties of the future and the unsettling reality that so many would support an agenda that will work directly against their own interests. 

Today, we exhale. It’s important to remember not all is lost. Here in Oregon, we saw positive change: a diverse group of community-focused candidates were elected locally, with real geographic representation for the first time in the City of Portland. And Portland voters made history using ranked-choice voting to fully express their choices on their ballot, strengthening our democratic system. This is the song we sing today.

At the Coalition of Communities of Color, we are reminded that our strength, wisdom and resilience will move us forward, no matter the challenges ahead. We remember how our ancestors faced even more cruelty and injustice in their lifetimes, and still pushed ahead. We all have a shared responsibility to resist, recharge, and organize so that we can turn these next challenging years into the start of a better, more unified future for all of us. The work continues and our commitment remains unwavering. 

The Coalition has been in the fight since 2001, and though the path has never been easy, we’re here for the long haul. 

Let us march on, till victory is won.

In Solidarity,

Marcus C. Mundy

Executive Director

More Voice, More Choice with Ranked-Choice Voting

The Coalition of Communities of Color has worked since 2018 to advance democracy in the City of Portland through the adoption of more representative electoral systems that will help ensure the voices of BIPOC community members are more fully reflected in our city government. In 2022, we worked as part of the Portland United for Change coalition to pass Measure 26-228, moving Portland’s democracy forward.

Now, in this election, Portland voters will be using ranked-choice voting to elect its Mayor, Auditor, and City Councilors for the first time. By ranking candidates, your voice will be more powerful.

Here’s a quick guide on ranked-choice voting. Go to bit.ly/pdx-votes for full information on our new system!

With ranked-choice voting in Portland, you can rank up to 6 candidates in order of preference. 

Rank your favorite candidate 1st.

You can only have one candidate be your #1. Do not rank more than one candidate as your first ranking, or that ranking won’t count.

Select any other candidates you like and rank them in order of preference, up to 6.

Once you’ve selected your 1st choice candidate, you can then choose a 2nd choice in the second column, then a 3rd, and keep making choices up to 6. Rank only one candidate per column. 

Ranking all 6 of your choices is the most powerful way to use your ballot, but it’s okay to choose fewer. Ranking more candidates will never hurt your 1st choice. 

Key tips:

• Don’t rank a candidate that you do not support.

• You will be voting in a geographic district and 3 City Council candidates will win. Ranking at least three people will help make sure you have a say about the winners. But remember, you can only rank one candidate #1.

• If you make a mistake, it’s okay! Simply mark an X over the incorrect choice. You can also call 3-1-1 for help between 7:00 AM–8:00 PM every day.

You can find tips, instructions, and more information on how to fill out your ballot at bit.ly/pdx-votes.

Why rank candidates?

• If your 1st choice candidate doesn’t get enough votes, your vote can still help determine the winner. 

• You can vote for your favorite candidate, without worrying about wasting your vote.

• You can support candidates with different backgrounds and ideas.

Return your ballot by TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5. Drop your ballot off at any official drop box location by 8:00 pm (find a location here) or by mail (no stamp required). Ballots must be postmarked by November 5. 

If you have not yet received your ballot or have any problems, call 3-1-1 if you need help.

Portland voters, it’s time to make your voices heard in this election! Go to bit.ly/pdx-votes for all the information you need on ranked-choice voting.

Thank you to everyone who made CCC’s 2024 Summer Soirée a wonderful success, with a record-breaking $269,000 raised for racial justice, 82 sponsors, over 400 guests, and one mission to bring it all together. This year’s Summer Soirée was a major success, and it is all thanks to you, our wonderful supporters, our member organizations, sponsors, partners, and the entire community.

We celebrated our annual Summer Soirée gala at Avenue Portland on May 31. The dynamic and charismatic Poison Waters charged the room with her charisma and energy. We had the pleasure of featuring two local BIPOC owned restaurants, Plant Based Papi and Hapa Barkada. Devil’s Food was our lead caterer and also provided guests with three signature cocktails. DJ Just Jeff helped us wrap up the night in style with all the best tunes, and Feddy Torres from FTJPhotograpy, and Conrad McKethan captured the night's essence in images you can find here and here. Relive the fun or see what you missed.

Thank you for being a part of this year’s Summer Soirée, and we hope to see there in 2025! Keep a look out for our save the date coming soon.

We are grateful to all of our sponsors who showed up and showed out at our event, and a special thank you to our Diamond Sponsors:

In honor of Earth Day, we’re taking a moment to share more about CCC’s commitment to environmental justice (EJ) and the role it plays in our daily lives. Read on to get to know our EJ team in a Q&A below.What is CCC’s mission and goals for achieving environmental justice? 

Our team’s mission is centered around elevating the community knowledge and lived experience of frontline communities — those who experience the first and worst impacts of the climate crisis and other environmental injustices — in policy and planning efforts. We work to broaden the understanding of environmental justice as a holistic and tangible issue. Extreme heat waves, wildfires, and rising utility costs are among just a few of many environmental justice issues that our communities are contending with. Ultimately, we seek to shift power to the most impacted and lessen burdens and increase benefits for frontline communities.

Taren Evans, Environmental Justice Director 

Why are you personally passionate about environmental justice?

I appreciate how holistic environmental justice is; it considers all the ways in which people are interconnected with the world and the systems around us. From the buildings we work and live in, and the energy we use throughout our day, to the way we get around, the water we drink, and the parks we play in — environmental justice touches almost every part of our daily lives. I am grateful to be able to work on policies and processes to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to survive and thrive! 

Nikita Daryanani, Climate and Energy Policy Manager 

Can you share a success story or project that your team has accomplished and the impact it had on the community? 

Our EJ team played a critical role in bringing a unique government planning model to Multnomah County. We partnered with the Multnomah County Office of Sustainability, the Health Department, and community partners to create the county's first community-driven climate justice plan. Our main focus was on ensuring that underrepresented voices were heard throughout the multi-year planning process by engaging community members. We’re proud to be contributing authors of the climate justice planning framework as well as the climate justice storytelling and data zine that highlights the strength of communities of color and the combination of quantitative and qualitative data.

Santi Sanchez, Health and Climate Coordinator

Strengthen our impact this Earth Day: your donation of $10 today will support EJ efforts in our community. Donate today!

Job Announcement: Research Associate

Applications are now closed.

The Coalition of Communities of Color’s (CCC) Research Justice Institute seeks an outstanding researcher to join our team as a Research Associate. 

The Research Associate will help lead and support a wide range of research projects and activities, such as collecting and analyzing qualitative data, directly engaging community members, and drafting reports and literature reviews. Our research encompasses a wide range of topics related to racial justice, including health, environmental justice, education, transportation, and beyond. 

In addition to the core work of research and data analysis, the Research Associate will also build out the public presence of the Research Justice Institute by launching and creating our new blog, drafting research briefs accessible to our communities, and convening a network of BIPOC researchers. 

The ideal candidate will have strong writing and communication skills and be committed to working with communities of color. Experience using and analyzing qualitative data and outstanding writing skills are essential for this role. This position is a unique opportunity to build expertise in community data and research justice for BIPOC communities. 

The Research Associate’s work will contribute to CCC’s efforts for systems change as we take on urgent issues, build capacity among our BIPOC partners and community members, and use our research to move policymakers and institutions toward racial equity.

For full details on this position, please visit www.coalitioncommunitiescolor.org/jobs.

Research and Analysis: Your role will focus on a wide range of research projects and data analysis, all in close collaboration with the research team. Your work will help power our research projects by:

• Co-constructing every aspect of the research process, from project design and data collection methods to community involvement and sharing our research with key audiences

• Leading or co-leading parts of the components of the research and data lifecycle

• Conducting qualitative analysis for research projects 

• Drafting elements of our research reports

• Completing literature reviews and searching for data on topics to inform our current and upcoming research projects 

• Engaging and recruiting community members and partners to participate in our research and data collection efforts

Building the Research Justice Institute’s public presence: You will increase the impact of our work and amplify the visibility of our research by:

• Launching and leading our new Research Justice Institute blog, generating original content addressing key research justice and equity issues

• Drafting new community briefs to more effectively communicate our research projects to the public, the communities we serve, and the broader public

Leading CCC’s BIPOC Research Network: You will build and strengthen relationships between CCC and BIPOC researchers, data workers, evaluators, students, and community outreach/engagement experts across Oregon by:

• Managing and administering the new CCC BIPOC Researcher Network, including establishing a member database

• Regularly communicating to the network and public through our website content 

• Convening members of the network at annual gatherings 

Qualifications

A successful candidate will have the following qualifications:

• Bachelors or Masters degree in a social science or humanities discipline and/or 2–4 years of work experience leading and supporting research projects that engage the public and, in particular, communities of color

• Clear, concise, and accessible research writing, with the ability to produce high-quality research reports

• Excellent project management skills with the ability to lead the implementation of major projects and work on multiple projects simultaneously

• An understanding of how institutional use of data and research can benefit or harm communities of color

• Ability to effectively communicate with partners verbally and in writing

• Ability to work closely with colleagues in a dynamic environment

• Commitment to racial justice and building power for communities of color

These qualifications are a plus:

• Familiarity with quantitative data systems methods and analysis as well as the role of community-based data

• Knowledge of conducting, visualizing, and explaining qualitative data analysis 

• An understanding of how institutional use of data and research can benefit or harm communities of color

• Experience working with culturally specific community-based organizations, local government, and nonprofit partners

Compensation:

This is a full-time, exempt position with a salary range of $65,386–$74,467. CCC works to provide our staff with support for their health and well-being and recognize the value of their work through the following benefits:

• Paid time off: 15 days paid vacation in the first year of employment, increasing with tenure at the organization; 10 days of paid sick leave; 12 paid holidays and a one week office closure in December.

• Insurance: CCC pays 100% of premiums for medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, and life insurance for the employee.

• Additional benefits include a flexible Spending Account (health savings and daycare), a Transportation Savings Account, an Employee Assistance Program, monthly phone and transportation stipends, and full reimbursements for the employee’s Paid Leave Oregon contributions. Employees may enroll in a matching 401k retirement plan after one year of employment.

• CCC also provides resources to support our staff’s training, skill-building, and professional development.

Work Environment: CCC has a hybrid work schedule, with our office located in downtown Portland. You must live in or be willing to move within commuting distance of the office.

To Apply: Please send a cover letter (no more than two pages) and resume to HR@coalitioncommunitiescolor.org, with the subject line “Research Associate — [your name].” Applications are now closed. You will be contacted if selected for an interview. 

The short legislative session ran just over a month. Although the “short session” usually sees less momentous legislation, this session we saw many of the Coalition’s endorsed legislation and budget investments pass, particularly those for economic opportunity and language access. Other landmark issues were the passage of state campaign finance limits that will begin to address money in politics and major investments in housing across the state. However, the highest profile issue of the session—Measure 110 reform—ended with the recriminalization of drug possession, a rollback that will disproportionately impact Black and brown Oregonians through convictions and incarceration. Our excitement at the overall success of our priorities is tempered by the impact HB 4002 will have on our BIPOC communities.  

See our original legislative agenda here and read on for highlights below.

2024 CCC Legislative Highlights:Economic Opportunity

Two existing programs to advance economic opportunity received new infusions of funding. The Economic Equity Investment Program received $8 million; this investment was the top priority for the BIPOC Caucus. This program provides grants and technical assistance to community-based programs. At a time where Oregon’s racial wealth gap is increasing, we must make ongoing investments to build generational wealth for the BIPOC Oregonians who have faced systemic discrimination in employment and asset-building.

The Oregon Individual Development Account Initiative was allocated $5 million, an investment that increased the overall amount of funds so IDA providers statewide can enroll more savers this year. IDAs are a powerful tool to economic prosperity for BIPOC Oregonians with low incomes. These matched savings accounts enable participants to work toward their own financial goals, such as homeownership or higher education. Many of CCC’s member organizations provide IDAs with culturally specific and relevant financial education, helping support the long term economic prosperity for savers. We will continue to advocate for ongoing investments in IDAs and the Economic Equity Investment Program as key strategies to address Oregon’s racial wealth gap.

Economic opportunity for Oregon families also relies on quality, affordable child care for all children. This year, key bills and investments will help stabilize and prepare Oregon’s child care supply for expansion. The Employment Related Daycare (ERDC) program received $171.2 million, helping to ensure stability for families enrolled in the program. With the passage of HB 4098 and a $5 million allocation, Oregon is also better prepared to expand child care capacity when seeking federal funds through the CHIPS Act by adapting existing state programs to increase child care supply in priority areas.

While legislation to create a Child Care Infrastructure Fund - HB 4158 did not pass, $1.5 million was allocated to the Provider Services Fund, helping continue their support of family care providers. While much remains to be done to meet Oregon families’ child care needs, the Child Care for Oregon coalition continues to build momentum and move policymakers toward meaningful action and investments in this critical system.

Our final endorsed piece of legislation that was passed in economic opportunity was The Family Financial Protection Act - SB 1595. The business practices of the debt collection industry worsen the racial wealth gap and can devastate Oregonians by putting their homes and savings at risk. This legislation will strengthen protections for Oregonians who are sued by debt collectors that garnish their wages or bank accounts, or place liens on their home and imperil their financial stability. With the passage of this bill, consumers will be better equipped to fight back against unfair debt proceedings and maintain their financial stability.

Immigrant Justice and Language Access

In the arena of immigrant justice and language access, SB 1533 increased the number of languages for the Voters’ Pamphlet to the top ten languages spoken statewide, up from just five. Counties will also be required to include any language that has over 100 speakers. These changes will enable thousands more Oregonians to make informed decisions when they vote and opportunities for greater democratic participation.

Another new policy to advance immigrant justice and language access was Healthcare Interpreter Reform - SB 1578. Quality care requires in-language communication, which is often provided by medical interpreters. This legislation will expand access to health care interpreters and make the system more equitable for interpreters—many of whom are BIPOC immigrants themselves—increasing their earning potential. This legislation is awaiting the Governor’s signature.

Finally, the Immigrant and Refugee Student Success plan - SB 1532 passed, directing the Department of Education to develop a plan for our education system to better meet the needs of immigrant and refugee students and set them on a path to educational success. Student Success Plans have been developed to support Black, Indigenous, Latine, Pacific Islander students, and our schools should be similarly equipped with strategies to support learning for immigrant and refugee students.

Reflections on the 2024 Legislative Session

Much of the session was dominated by HB 4002, which rolled back key provisions of Measure 110 and recriminalized possession of drugs; the legislation is expected to be signed by Governor Kotek. We know that this return to the War on Drugs will have a disproportionate impact on Black and brown communities, resulting in thousands of convictions and jailings of people struggling with substance use. Many of CCC’s member organizations engaged in fierce advocacy and showed the power of community voices, mobilizing hundreds of BIPOC Oregonians to show up and weigh in on this legislation. We are grateful to Unite Oregon and Imagine Black for their leadership in this movement and the many CCC organizations who played a critical role. While the legislature ultimately did not heed this message, we will look to implementation to mitigate the harm this measure will cause and maximize investments toward real treatment and services.

While we were deeply disappointed by the passage of HB 4002, the Legislature did finally address the longstanding issue of money in politics, imposing campaign finance limits. These reforms will help more diverse candidates run on a level playing field and limit the corrupting influence of wealthy donors. This legislation earned the support of a diverse range of advocates, meaning that there will not be any campaign finance measures on the ballot in November. We were also heartened to see an investment of over $350 million to address our state’s housing crisis, particularly the $7 million allocation to support our member the Urban League of Portland in their work to provide homelessness prevention services.

What’s next? CCC is now looking to prepare for the November election and to the 2025 legislative session to develop new policy priorities, advocate for critical investments, and take up unfinished business from previous sessions. You can learn more about missed opportunities from the 2023 legislative session in our recap here. We look forward to working with our coalition and many partners to advance racial equity and justice in Oregon.

A Love Letter to Black America during Black History Month

The Coalition of Communities of Color (CCC) humbly acknowledges Black History Month for all of the sacrifice and struggle Black folks in America have endured since our unceremonious rending from our native land.

We further acknowledge the innumerable contributions made by Black people to the America we now call home – gifts born out of creativity, necessity, ingenuity and brilliance. We built America.

CCC admires you for your determination during the Civil Rights movement, which afforded long overdue rights not just to people of African descent, but for all people not participating fully in America.

We're also deeply grateful to our Black-led CCC member organizations, whose visionary work and essential contributions are paving the way towards stronger, more resilient communities. We urge everyone to learn more and support their work:

• Africa House

• Imagine Black 

• KairosPDX

• Portland Community Reinvestment Initiatives

• Urban League of Portland

• Self Enhancement, Inc. 

As our own Black-led organization, CCC is dedicated to relentlessly addressing the injustices around Black folks and other people of color, concentrating our focus this year on building power for BIPOC voices through our 2024 legislative agenda and the upcoming elections. 

Again, thank you, Black America, for all that you have given us.

We love you. We appreciate you. We thank you, and we will try to honor and be worthy of all that you have done for us. It is enough.

Sincerely,

Marcus C. Mundy, CCC Executive Director

Salem in Session

Oregon leaders kicked off the 2024 legislative short session earlier this month. Our member-driven process has identified key priorities to support economic opportunity, invest in childcare access, strengthen immigrant protections, and more.

>>> Read which priorities CCC members endorsed here.

ICYMI: Save the Date for May 31st

Join us for the Summer Soirée, CCC’s annual fundraiser. More details to follow. Interested in becoming a Sponsor? Download our Sponsorship Packet here or contact CCC's Development Manager Lucero Valera Brambila at Lucero@coalitioncommunitiescolor.org with any questions.

Upcoming Events

• Wednesday, Feb. 21 │ Unite Oregon’s 2024 Lobby Day. Register here.

• Saturday, Feb. 24 and Sunday, Feb, 25 │ Junction Ave: Black-owned business market with food, shopping and music, hosted by Self Enhancement, Inc. at the Center for Self Enhancement (3920 N Kerby Ave., Portland) from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Wednesday, March 6 │Urban League of Portland’s Our Voices United Legislative Day of Action. Register here.

We're excited to announce that CCC’s Summer Soirée is returning on Friday, May 31st – you won't want to miss it. Join us this year for a night of community, entertainment, and wonderful surprises. Stay tuned for more details to come!

WHEN: May 31st, 2024

WHERE: Avenue event space

Become a Sponsor

If you are interested in sponsoring our annual fundraiser, we'd love to hear from you. Click the button to download our Sponsorship Packet or contact our Development Manager Lucero at lucero@coalitioncommunitiescolor.org.

The Oregon Legislature has just convened for its short session, and we are proud to announce that the Coalition of Communities of Color (CCC) has endorsed 10 legislative priorities for the year 2024. These priorities have been determined through a member-driven process and include measures to support economic opportunity, strengthen immigrant protections, and more. We invite you to continue reading to learn more about CCC's 2024 legislative agenda or our involvement in past sessions.

• CCC’s 2024 Legislative Agenda

• Learn more about our previous work with our 2023 Legislative Session Recap, and see our member endorsement process

Carryover Priority Legislation from 2023

• Fund the Employment-Related Daycare Program

• Child Care Facilities Fund (HB 4158)

• Fund Oregon Individual Development Account Initiative (HB 4131)

• Fund Universal Legal Representation

• Economic Equity Investment Act (HB 4041)

New Priority Legislation for 2024

• Healthcare Interpreter Reform (SB 1578)

• Expanding Voters' Pamphlet Translation (SB 1533)

• Establishing Immigrant and Refugee Student Success Plan (SB 1532)

• Family Financial Protection Act (SB 1595)

• CHIPS Child Care Bill (HB 4098)

CCC-Endorsed Items for 2024 Child Care

Fund the Employment Related Daycare (ERDC) Program:

Fund the Employment Related Daycare program to address the projected shortfall in program funding and end the waitlist to better help families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families pay their child care costs. Take action with Child Care for Oregon. 

Child Care Facilities Fund (HB 4158):

Develop and improve child care by improving access to financial assistance for licensed home-based and small center child care providers. 

CHIPS Child Care Bill (HB 4098):

The Federal CHIPS Act provides Oregon CHIP manufacturers subsidies to build the infrastructure they need to grow this sector. Leveraging existing state child care systems will ensure CHIPS applicants meet application requirements.

Economic Justice

Fund the Oregon Individual Development Accounts Initiative (HB 4131):

Provides funds to support financial security and work towards a self-determined savings goal through this matched savings program. A total of $13.8 million in matching funds was distributed in the last two years, and nearly half of those funds went to BIPOC participants. 

Economic Equity Investment Act (HB 4041):

Allocates funding to the Economic Equity Investment Program created in 2022 that provides one-time grants to culturally-responsive community-based organizations with programs that build wealth for people experiencing economic risk factors. 

Family Financial Protection Act (SB 1595):

Strengthen protection for consumers who are sued by debt collectors and have wage or bank account garnishments or liens on their home. This bill would also make it easier for consumers to fight back against debt collectors and debt buyers who try to collect from the wrong people.

Health Care

Healthcare Interpreter Reform (SB 1578):

Helps create a path toward fairer compensation for healthcare interpreters and increase access by creating a public online scheduling portal with billing and payment services for Medicaid healthcare interpreters in Oregon.

Democracy

Expanding Voters' Pamphlet Translation (SB 1533):

Increase the number of languages for the Voters’ Pamphlet from top 5 most spoken languages to top 10 statewide and increase the threshold for individual counties to include any language that has 100+ speakers to 300+.

Immigrant and Refugee Support

Establishing Immigrant and Refugee Student Success Plan (SB 1532):

Directs the Oregon Department of Education to develop an advisory committee to inform the development and implementation of a plan to support the success of immigrant and refugee students.

Fund Universal Legal Representation:

Continue funding to provide no-cost immigration legal services to Oregonians through a statewide collaborative of community based organizations, nonprofits and attorneys.