About the Commission

Mission Statement

The mission of the Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs is to work toward economic, social, political and legal equality for Oregon's Hispanic population.

We serve as advocates for Latino youth, children, and adults. We want them to have the same opportunities to succeed in school, receive equal health and social services, and we want them to be treated equally through the judicial system.

The Commission does the following:

• Focuses on the bigger statewide picture — what gaps exist in services, programs, Latino representation, etc., for the Latino community

• Refers customers to professionals — putting seekers of service together with the individual or organization most capable of serving their needs

• Facilitates youth programs and efforts that help Latino youth appreciate education, business, and community involvement

• Monitors existing programs that affect the Latino community within state government and the private sector

• Develops and monitors legislation which affects the Latino community in Oregon

• Identifies, researches and voices concerns on issues which affect the Hispanic community in Oregon

• Advocates Hispanic representation in state government and on state boards and commissions and promotes positive aspects of the Hispanic community

• Encourages Oregon residents to resolve their own local issues in a positive, productive manner, with the appropriate community stakeholder

The Commission does not:

1. Perform investigations

2. Donate money because of budget limitations

3. Jump into action for every allegation of discrimination or abuse

4. Treat others unprofessionally
   
   We hope to resolve issues in a communicative, professional manner to promote a beneficial relationship with legislators and state, county, and city officials.

History of the Commission

1971 — Commission on Chicano Affairs

Created to address the needs and concerns of migrant workers. Governor Tom McCall appointed 15 members to work with a ten thousand-dollar grant from the Oregon Department of Human Resources to identify Hispanic concerns, educate themselves on policy and policy making, and seek methods for improving working conditions and community relations for Oregon's Hispanic population.

1981— Governor's Commission on Hispanic Affairs

Created by Vic Atiyeh with nine appointed members.

1983 — Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs

The Commission on Hispanic Affairs was created by the 1983 Legislative Assembly to work for the implementation of economic, social, legal, and political equality for Hispanics in Oregon. The Commission monitors existing programs and legislation to ensure that the needs of Hispanics in Oregon are met. The Commission researches problems and issues and recommends appropriate action, maintains a liaison between the Hispanic community and government entities, and encourages Hispanic representation on state boards and commissions. See Oregon Blue Book for more information about the history of the Commission.