LWVPDX Interest Groups

Interest Groups are groups of members who get together to learn more about a particular topic of concern. The topic may already be part of the League’s portfolio. However, it also may be in an area of interest that could lead to a new study or review. Interest Groups must be approved by the LWVPDX Board, in order to do their work in the name of the League. The primary purpose is learning together. These groups are more informal than League study committees. Currently, the League has interest groups on Education, Housing, and Justice. With board approval, Interest Groups may work with the Action Committee to propose topics for advocacy.  Interest Groups report regularly to the LWVPDX Board and membership about their activities.

Current LWV of Portland Interest Groups

Previous Director Kevin Bacon explains the Faubion School to the LWVPDX Education Interest Group

Education Interest Group (EIG): This interest group has started up again after a pause during the pandemic. In the past, the group visited schools and interviewed school administrators. The group organized a program on Innovations in Education with administrators from three districts for a LWVPDX public Community Education event.  During 2023-24 the EIG presented a Community Education Program related to challenges for Portland Public Schools due to declining funding, changes in leadership, behavioral health, and student absenteeism.

Currently the group is involved in data analysis regarding school funding and student performance.  Attention is being paid to the upcoming state legislature’s education funding bills and the implementation of the new Oregon law on civics education. Members continue to plan for Community Education events about topics such as the University of Oregon’s program for PPS and other districts at the Balmer Institute which is focused on child and adolescent mental health at its new north Portland campus. Other topics include school safety, curriculum decisions and staffing decisions made by PPS in the past or in the coming year..

 

The Pines, affordable housing in SE Portland -Photo by Human Solutions

Housing Interest Group (HIG): The Housing Interest Group has been listening to speakers about increasing the availability of affordable housing in Portland. They also are considering possible solutions to homelessness.

At a recent 2023 meeting, Marc Jolin spoke about his life-long work to reduce homelessness.  Marc resigned recently as head of the Portland Joint Office of Homeless Services. 

 

Portland Police Headquarters – Photo by Aaron Hockley

Justice Interest Group: The Justice Interest Group previously worked with the LWV of Oregon Action Committee to advocate for improvements in juvenile justice. The group proposed the recent study of Portland Police Bureau: Oversight and Accountability. Some members of the group were members of the study committee. Now, this Interest Group is working with the LWVPDX Action Committee.  Using our new advocacy position, they propose testimony about improving public safety and police interactions with the community.

At a recent meeting, the Justice Interest Group heard from Mike Myers, the City of Portland’s first community safety transition director.  Mila Mimica, communication aide, also attended this meeting. Mike has been working alongside Council offices, community leaders, Portland Fire & Rescue, the Portland Police Bureau, the Portland Bureau of Emergency Management, and the Bureau of Emergency Communications to co-create a community safety strategic plan.

Two more LWVPDX Interest Groups have started up and will apply soon for board approval:

    • International Relations Interest Group
    • Behavioral Health Interest Group