Oregon Resource Association provides support and advocacy for a variety of member organizations across the state that provide services to people with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities. We are driven by compassion, empathy and equity for people with disabilities, and with a passion for ensuring that our communities are welcoming to all. We are rooted in policies and practices that are designed to protect the rights of others. We celebrate differences in people and strive to create communities where everyone is welcomed, valued and respected. We aspire toward an inclusive world where equity and justice are the norm.

Unfortunately, for black people and other communities of color, this world is not a reality. As we have seen across our nation, acts of racism, injustice, violence and intolerance are common occurrences, and sadly those charged with protecting everyone — regardless of their race, creed or color — are all too frequently the perpetrators. We therefore stand in solidarity with those experiencing these injustices and wholeheartedly support the struggle to end this pernicious systemic racism. It is a blight on our society. 

The ORA staff and board stand for equity, peace and unity. We commit to encourage our members to speak out in support of this movement and to stand against racism, discrimination and inequity. We will offer training and support to help our members understand unconscious biases, how to recognize and avoid microaggressions, how to create a welcoming company culture and how to be part of a bigger, societal movement that is necessary for real change. This training will be available routinely to our member organizations at no cost, will periodically be presented at ORA Quarterly Meetings and will be required for all board members.

In addition, this topic will be added to the ORA Board Meeting Agenda, at least quarterly, to ensure the board considers additional ways to be of support to black people in the quest to stamp out racism in our communities.