June holds deep meaning as a time to honor resilience, liberation, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.
Juneteenth, commemorated today, on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It is a powerful reminder of delayed justice and a milestone in the long struggle for racial equality and civil rights in the United States. Moreover, June is also Pride Month, a time to celebrate the generations of LGBTQ2SIA+ leaders whose hard work and dedication to justice have helped to make love, acceptance, and community the Oregon way.
Many also recognize June as World Refugee Awareness Month, a time to uplift the courage and contributions of refugees around the world. Oregon has long been a place of refuge, and our communities have been deeply enriched by those who have resettled here across generations. During World War II, approximately 100 German Jewish refugees fled violence and persecution to make a home in and around Portland. In the decades that followed, new generations of refugees from across the globe – Hungary, Southeast Asia, Somalia, Ethiopia, Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and many other regions – found safety and opportunity here. Each wave of newcomers has contributed to the strength of our communities—bringing diverse experiences, skills, and cultural richness that continue to shape Oregon’s future.
Though distinct, these observances share common themes: resilience in the face of adversity, the strength of community, and the ongoing work to achieve equity, dignity, and freedom for all.
Today, amid global uncertainty and shifting immigration policies, Oregon remains committed to being a place of welcome and inclusion. As we reflect on Juneteenth, Pride, and World Refugee Day, we are reminded that justice and safety must be continually upheld—and that our shared humanity calls us to stand together.
Let us honor this legacy by building communities where all people—regardless of background or journey—can belong, contribute, and thrive.
Warmly,
Cheryl Miller, Interim OIRA Director
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We are excited to announce that Jessica Ventura has accepted the position of Director for the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Advancement (OIRA) at the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). Jessica will officially begin her new role on July 1, 2025.
Jessica brings a commitment to equity, public service, and immigrant and refugee communities, along with her extensive leadership experience in policy, advocacy, and community engagement. Her collaborative approach and passion for systemic change will be vital as we continue advancing OIRA’s mission to promote the well-being, integration, and inclusion of Oregon’s immigrant and refugee populations.
Throughout the rigorous recruitment process, Jessica demonstrated a strong vision for cross-sector partnerships, culturally responsive leadership, and community-centered decision-making. We are confident her leadership will strengthen OIRA’s impact and further support the communities we serve.
Please join us in warmly welcoming Jessica Ventura to ODHS. We also extend our gratitude to the staff, partners, and community members who contributed their time and insight throughout the recruitment process. We look forward to the work ahead, done in partnership and with a shared purpose.
Oregon Election Division Seeks Members for Translation Advisory Council to Guide Language Accessibility Project
The Oregon Elections Division is seeking Chinese speakers who read and write Simplified Chinese as well as Tagalog, Spanish, Somali, and Vietnamese-speaking members for the Translation Advisory Council (TAC) to make our elections more accessible through the translation of voters' pamphlets.
Help protect Oregon EBT cardholders from theft
Electronic theft of benefits from Oregon EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards is increasing. Criminals are using tactics like skimming devices to collect card numbers and PINs, allowing them to steal critical food and cash benefits from individuals and families.
We recognize the significant impact this has on people in our community — many of whom are already navigating complex and stressful life situations. That's why the Oregon Department of Human Services has created outreach materials to help raise awareness and support prevention.
These materials — a flyer, brochure and wallet card — are designed to be accessible, easy to understand and empowering. They explain the risks and offer simple steps people can take to protect their benefits.
The brochure, flyer and wallet card are available on the Protect Your EBT Card and Benefits webpage in many languages: English, Spanish, Arabic, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Russian, Somali, Ukrainian, Vietnamese
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Non-Profit Association of Oregon (NAO) is hosting a series of events and trainings to assist non-profits cope with the challenges of funding disruptions.
If you’ve been affected by federal program cuts or are considering deeper collaboration or a merger with another nonprofit, our new series, “Facing the New Reality: Strategic Paths for Nonprofits,” may be for you. In this five-part webinar series, experienced experts will outline critical paths to guide your nonprofit during these challenging times.
Learn more at the NAO website
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Catholic Community Services of Lane County is hosting a free event celebrating the power of community, in honor of World Refugee Day on June 20, 2025.
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This year we are celebrating Turtle Island; the indigenous peoples of North and South America! Join us in Riverfront Park where you can experience the music, dance, food and traditions of over 60 nations and cultures. Things kick off with a Children’s Parade at 9:45 am on Saturday and will continue until Sunday evening.
World Beat Festival 2025, Salem Oregon
June 28-29, 2025
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Started a few years ago by a community member, this walk continues in 2025 as a shared tradition by the diverse communities of the Portland metropolitan area.
It’s family-friendly and open for all.
Date: Friday, June 20, 2025
Time: 5:30–7:30 PM (Walk begins at 6:00 PM)
Location: Downtown Portland Waterfront, Salmon Street Springs Fountain
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Bottles To Soccer
Eastside Timbers Soccer Complex
World Refugee Day 2025 Friday, June 20 6:00–9:00 PM Eastside Timbers Soccer Complex, Portland, OR
Free & open to the public
Join us for an inspiring evening of soccer, storytelling, and solidarity as we celebrate World Refugee Day 2025—honoring the resilience, contributions, and journeys of refugee and immigrant communities across Oregon.
This community-driven event will bring together over 250 attendees, including: 100 youth (ages 5–18) from refugee, immigrant, and low-income backgrounds 50 elected officials, coaches, and community leaders Dozens of refugees, volunteers, and cultural partners from across the region.
Why It Matters Through shared stories and the universal language of sport, we build connection, healing, and belonging. Refugees are not just survivors—they are leaders, athletes, artists, and changemakers. This event is a celebration of their strength and contributions to our community.
What to Expect Live music & cultural performances Youth soccer training & skills sessions Powerful storytelling from newly arrived families, community voices, and public officials A friendly scrimmage between elected officials and community leaders Resource tables, giveaways & more!
Sign Up & Get Involved! Help make this event a success by signing up:
Run of Show (subject to updates) 5:30 PM – Gates open & live music 6:00–7:30 PM – Soccer training, performances & storytelling 7:30–8:00 PM – Leadership voices take the stage 8:00–9:00 PM – Scrimmage: elected officials + community leaders 9:00 PM – Event concludes with a group photo & community thanks
Presented by Bottles to Soccer, in collaboration with Eastside Timbers, Rohingya Youth Association of Portland, Somali Oregon Service Center, and additional partners to be announced.
Contact: bottlestosoccer@gmail.com
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