As our communities navigate change, we recognize the stress and uncertainty many may be feeling. In times like these, staying connected and supporting one another is more important than ever.
At the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (OIRA), we remain committed to fostering strength and resilience through community engagement. This month, we highlight resources, events, and opportunities designed to provide support, encourage connection, and promote growth. Whether you participate or share them with others, we invite you to join us in building a more united and inclusive community.
This month, we also reflect on the profound impact of the Civil Rights Movement and how its legacy continues to shape the fight for justice and equity, including the rights of immigrants and refugees. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. so powerfully stated:
"It really boils down to this: that all life is interrelated. We are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied into a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."
In that spirit, we have updated the OIRA webpage with the latest fact sheets, reports, and federal and state alerts. By staying informed and engaged, we can navigate these challenging times together.
Thank you for your partnership and dedication to this important work. With warmth and gratitude,
Cheryl Miller, Interim Director
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A federal judge in Seattle on Tuesday (Feb. 25) blocked President Donald Trump’s suspension of the nation’s refugee admissions system, saying that while the president has broad authority over who comes into the country, he cannot nullify the law passed by Congress establishing the program.
The ruling came in a lawsuit brought by individual refugees whose efforts to resettle in the U.S. have been halted as well as major refugee aid groups, who argued that they have had to lay off staff because the administration froze funding for processing refugee applications overseas as well as support, such as short-term rental assistance for those already in the U.S.
Luncheon for seniors 60+ years old, donation based, no one will be turned away. Homebound seniors in Multnomah, Washington or Clark County also may receive fresh produce, frozen meals, milk and bread weekly. Call us at 503-736-6325 or 360-946-2546 or submit an online meal request at https://mowp.org/what-we-do/online-meal-request
 African Youth and Community Organization now certified to offer outpatient services for Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder
We are excited to share an important and highly beneficial program that African Youth and Community Organization (AYCO) introduced last year. We are proud to highlight our Shifa Healing Program, which provides in-depth support for individuals with mental health needs, as well as those struggling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment and recovery.
This program was in high demand during the pandemic, and after extensive efforts, we are pleased to inform you that our organization has been certified by the state and received official approval for both Mental Health Outpatient services and outpatient SUD treatment.
Our team consists of seven well-trained and certified professionals, including a medical doctor, who will prescribe medications as necessary. We have already conducted over 60 sessions and are eager to provide even more referrals and support to those who need it.
 
The Immigrant Story, in collaboration with the Conversation Project at Willamette University, is honored to bring our acclaimed live storytelling event, The Immigrant Story Live, to Salem. We invite you to hear four compelling first-person tales of courage, fortitude and resilience from Myanmar, Afghanistan, Vietnam and Laos by members of our community.
Join us to experience the power of storytelling on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Hudson Hall in Rogers Music Center at Willamette University in Salem, Oregon.
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 Evening of Music and Poetry Mar. 7 at 6:30 p.m.
Join us for a captivating musical and poetic evening celebrating the timeless legacy of the legendary Ukrainian genius, Taras Shevchenko, whose words continue to inspire generations.
 Ukrainian embroidery class Feb. 28 and Mar. 14 at 3 p.m.
When: Feb. 28, 3 p.m. and Mar. 14, 3 p.m.
Where: Beaverton Library, Cathy Stanton room, 12375 SW 5th st. Beaverton, Or 97005
Over two sessions, create your own Ukrainian embroidered shirt. $10 includes t-shirt and materials
 
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