Even for the most fervent political wonks, politics is a lot right now. One way to keep civically engaged (and maybe keep from doom spiraling) is to focus on and advocate for local legislative bills that can have a positive impact on your kids — and families and children across Oregon.
The advocacy group Our Children Oregon can help you do just that.
“Oregon’s children are facing increasingly complex challenges that demand urgent action and a unified response. Together, we can make Oregon a place where every child and family thrives,” says Policy and Advocacy Director for Our Children Oregon Ali King. (King is also a former PDX Parent staffer.)
Keep an Eye on These Bills
The “Momnibus” bills prioritize housing during pregnancy and early childhood; ending child poverty; expanding behavioral health services for infants, children and parents; and expanding the perinatal workforce.
The Child Care Package bills aim to make it easier for parents who qualify for Employment Related Day Care Programs to find providers; help child care businesses recruit and retain employees; and include child care needs in labor discussions.
And finally, HB 2958 calls for renewing and expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, the largest anti-poverty program in the Oregon tax code.
Your family can get involved by following Our Children Oregon and its partner organizations on social media. Many of the organizations advocating for children’s issues host events that are specifically designed to engage kids and teens, encouraging them to stand up for an important cause in a safe and structured way such as attending peaceful rallies or virtual advocacy events; submitting written or verbal testimony for bills; and calling representatives to share their viewpoints or personal stories.
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