Community Organization Highlight: Oregon Self Advocacy Coalition (OSAC)

On November 15, 2021, OSAC held their Fall 2021 Quarterly Meeting. This meeting was the first since the pandemic began! We at CPI were curious about how the meeting went, and wanted to spread the word about the awesome work that OSAC is doing locally and around the state. Last week, CPI chatted with Gabrielle Guedon, Executive Director at OSAC. Gabrielle has been a part of OSAC since it was formed, originally as a member and self-advocate.

Hi Gabrielle! How are things over at OSAC?

We had our 2021 quarterly meeting last month. We’ve been overwhelmed trying to figure out how to start OSAC back up in a digital way. We have been putting energy into that. We had a work group with ODDS, [they] wanted to know how people’s services are, what their barriers are, how they would like things to be different, and if they are they getting what they need. It was a good meeting.

What are the issues OSAC is focusing on currently?

Getting quarterly meetings back up, [access to] services, the pandemic, people are worried about emergency preparedness. We’ve done a lot of work groups. DRO (Disability Rights Oregon) wants to talk to members. We have a mental health work group and a service work group. It depends on the time of year and which requests/issues come to the OSAC board. We are trying to get OSAC stabilized, doing discovery tour and figuring out what’s important to folks and to start doing what’s important [again].

When was OSAC first formed as an association, and why was it formed?

The organization was formed in 2010, after another Self Advocacy group, “Self Advocates as Leaders,” lost its [non-profit] status at the time. Self-Advocates as Leaders was formed because of the institutions [in Oregon]. Advocates wanted to come together to have a unified voice, and build a coalition so it wasn’t just a group – [this way] self-advocates could fight together with unified voice.

Why did you want to be involved with OSAC? What is your history with the association?

As a person with I/DD, I was beat down by the system. When I found OSAC, my life changed. I was given strength and was supported by OSAC members who are still here today. Lots of the original members who supported me to learn how to advocate were at the meeting on Monday.

After the pandemic, some members left for personal reasons. They stepped away and came back when they were ready. Self-advocacy is about taking care of yourself first and living a full life. Getting medical support, getting your dream job, so you can step up and be able to do it. Understanding that OSAC is a part of your life and you are a part of the coalition.

Why is self-advocacy important in the I/DD Community?

In the words of Ross Ryan, OSAC Community Advocate, “Self-advocacy is important in the community because we are the professionals in our lives, and we are just like everyone else. We want to live life including where, how, and with whom we want. [We want to] have a choice to make mistakes and get back up”. This true passion for self-advocacy resonates with me. I want to make sure that other people have those opportunities, to have a whole full life like everyone else.

What do your committees discuss when they meet? How can individuals can get involved?

The committees stepped back during the pandemic. The health care committee is [again] fully active. The committee has a certain passion and works with Oregon Office on Disability and Health (OODH) and University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD). They are working on a health care handbook and an emergency preparedness project right now with OODH. For the health care handbook, there are videos tied to it. Real actors are OSAC members! Individuals can come and act, and have a video of them posted online. OSAC is gearing up with OODH in January, we have a work group on what’s important. We are always looking for advocacy perspective throughout the state.

To get involved contact me. I will connect people with the chair and vice chair who can talk to them. Individuals can come and talk, ask questions and say what’s important to them. People can always join OSAC as well to get information.

Can you talk a little bit about legislation? Why is it important for self-advocates to be involved in this process?

Legislation is so important because especially in Oregon, legislators want to hear the stories, and need to hear what’s important. They can’t make correct changes without voices. Many legislators get in touch with OSAC members [to ask] how systems help them and what isn’t going well to make bills and policies to make it so life is better. Lots [of legislators] have family members with I/DD.

To get involved contact OSAC. During the legislative session, DD Coalition and Creating Opportunities holds a DD day (DD Advocacy Days “GO! Project”) that people can come to along with family members and supporters. It is like a training, so they can learn to talk to legislators. The DD Coalition shares bills that are coming up and talks to people who those bills are important to, [they] talk about advocating and getting assistance to tell their story.

Also Build a Movement (BAM) is localized, anybody can come to their conference. They hold it once/twice a year depending on the issues. They give feedback on different bills that are coming up as well as their support system. BAM is phenomenal! I joined them before [I got involved with] OSAC.

The State Exchange on Employment and Disability (SEED) conference is similar, they are trying to hold it once per year. This year SEED focused on social security and getting married. Legislators are trying to pass a law that makes it so people can get married and not lose their SSI/other benefits. BAM/SEED do different things every year. [Individuals] can go to both. BAM is no cost, SEED is low cost and we are looking for funding to send OSAC members to represent the community. Providers are welcome to attend either conference if they’re supporting a member.

Is there anything else about OSAC that you would like the I/DD community to know about?

We are a family. Our last meeting was on a Friday, everyone was saying they’re happy to be back and missed each other. They are happy to have their community back and be able to advocate together. Some people might not get along, just like a family. Everybody is going to do their own thing but come back together when it’s important. We want the best for our community and to change the system for the future.

We want to reach more people. We welcome people with a variety of disabilities. Individuals can have a provider with them during the meetings, even digitally. We welcome people who have support. The provider can’t take over the conversation, but can be present to help communicate if the person is nervous. This is not the provider’s meeting, it’s the individual’s meeting. I used to need a provider to help during meetings and now I support someone else during meetings. Service animals are great too!

If people are afraid, they’re more than welcome to come as a guest, they don’t have to commit to joining OSAC. If they have accommodations or are nervous, they should know that I have a disability. They’re not just talking to a professional, they’re talking to someone who actually has their back and knows what they’re going through. I’m a mentor as well.

It can be scary to come into a new group, [you’re not sure if the people running it] are professionals, will they talk down to me? OSAC should be the last place where they feel this way. I would apologize and correct it if that were to happen. If there was friction in the group, I am the last person they should feel afraid of talking to.

If it’s not what you’re into, don’t worry. Some people might like it and some might not. We’re only being human. I want more people to know that they’re safe at OSAC. I was beat down by the system and OSAC saved me. I know how to show vulnerability. I haven’t been through everything someone else has, [but I have] experience fighting the system, fighting to get good providers [and] receiving DD services. They are not alone.

We would like to thank Gaby for taking the time out of her super busy schedule to chat with us! OSAC is doing such great work in the I/DD community, and it’s good to know that the organization is led by someone who is empathetic, inclusive, and who has incredible knowledge and insight into the issues faced by those who experience I/DD.

To join OSAC or for more information, contact Gaby by email at gabrielle.guedon@askosac.org or by phone at 503-308-1310. For more general information about OSAC, their Self-Advocacy efforts and their committees, see their website at askosac.org.

*This article has been edited for length and clarity

COVID-19 Updates

The Omicron Variant

On November 26th, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified a new coronavirus variant named “Omicron” (pronounced aa-muh-kraan). There is concern that this variant could be more contagious than the Delta variant. The WHO are unsure if Omicron will cause more severe illness than the Delta variant. There is more research going into these two subjects and information is being updated almost daily.

We do know that the COVID-19 vaccines (and boosters) have been shown to increase immunity against the virus and reduce severe illness and death. We also know that continuing to wear a mask when in public, social distancing, and washing your hands often, can keep the virus from spreading. CPI will continue to keep you updated on this variant.

The CDC is now recommending booster shots for all adults over 18.

For the most up-to-date information on the Omicron variant, see the WHO’s website and the CDC’s website.

If you haven’t received your booster shot yet, and would like to know how to get it, contact your PA. You can also check out the CDC’s website about boosters, or visit the OHA’s website here.

Happy Holidays

When we say “Happy Holidays” we are not insulting Christmas or trying to change that holiday. We are acknowledging the wealth of holidays and celebrations that occur at this time of year.

The U.S. is full of many diverse people! This means that a lot of different cultural holidays (and religious traditions) fall during the end of the year. In last year’s newsletter, we discussed some of these, including Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Boxing Day, Winter Solstice, Bodhi Day, and Ōmisoka (or Japanese New Year).

Many Americans choose to say “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings” instead of “Merry Christmas” as a holiday greeting. Saying “Merry Christmas” to someone who celebrates a different holiday can make the person feel marginalized and like their beliefs aren’t valid or respected. Just because one holiday is widely celebrated in the U.S. doesn’t mean we should ignore the others!

Saying “Happy Holidays” ensures that no one is left out. It is an inclusive way of wishing someone well, showing that you respect and value whatever tradition (religious or not) that they observe. What matters most is sending well wishes to others.

For more information on the history of this “War of Words”, see here. For more information on the etiquette of “Happy Holidays”, see the Grammarly article here.

From our house to yours, we wish you a very happy holiday season!

Housing Updates

Emergency Rental Assistance Program

The State is pausing COVID-19 rental assistance applications for a minimum of 6 weeks for the Oregon Emergency Rental Assistance Program on December 1 at 11:59pm. This pause will not affect applications submitted before the deadline. This does not apply to the internal I/DD rental assistance program. For more information, see the Oregon Rental Assistance website or OPB’s article here.

Mortgage Assistance - Oregon Housing and Community Services

Homeowners that are in the foreclosure process who have received a notice of a lawsuit or sale date are currently eligible to apply for mortgage assistance. Pending U.S. Treasury approval, OHCS anticipates accepting applications from all eligible homeowners in early 2022. For more information on Oregon’s HAF and the phased opening, and to sign up for their e-newsletter, see their website here.

To apply, contact a representative from the Homeownership Assistance Fund (HAF) or contact your PA. This is a statewide resource and is not specific to the I/DD community.

If you or someone you know is on forbearance or at risk of foreclosure, it is important to speak with someone about options. Individuals can speak with a housing counselor about reinstatement and foreclosure prevention options available for home loans. To find a housing counselor, locate a nearby Homeownership Center.

Open Future Learning: New Video, Fionn

Check out this awesome video that OFL put out last month! Fionn explains why he is very unique.

Office Closures

Christmas

Our offices will be closed from 3:00PM on Thursday, December 23rd through Friday, December 24th in observance of Christmas Day. We will reopen on Monday, December 27th at 9:00AM.

New Years Day

Our offices will be closed from 3:00PM on Thursday, December 30th through Friday, December 31st in observance of New Years Day. We will reopen on Monday, January 3rd at 9:00AM.

CPI wishes everyone a happy and safe holiday season filled with laughter, cheer and joy!

Holiday Recipe: Black Eyed Peas with Bacon and Pork (via Food Network/The Neelys)

This holiday season, we’re sharing a recipe for black eyed peas which is a dish that is traditionally made for the Karamu feast during Kwanzaa! Black-eyed peas symbolize good luck for the new year.

Ingredients:

1 pound dried black-eyed peas (fresh or canned black-eyed peas can be substituted)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
6 ounces pork shoulder, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
4 strips thick sliced bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium onion, small diced
4 garlic cloves, sliced
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
4 cups chicken stock
2 cups water
3 bay leaves
Hot-pepper vinegar, as desired

Directions:

If using dried black-eyed peas, put them in a large pot and cover with about 4 inches of water. Soak the peas overnight, then drain the water and rinse. You can also "quick-soak" the peas by bringing them and the water to a boil for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover the pot and soak for 1 hour. Then, drain and rinse the peas.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the pork. Sear until the pork is browned on all sides, 4 to 5 minutes.
Add the bacon, onion and garlic to the pot and cook, stirring, until the onion and garlic are lightly browned, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Add the salt, black pepper, cayenne and garlic powder. Cook until the entire mixture is coated with the spices, about 2 minutes.
Pour in the stock and water and drop in the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes.
When the pork begins to fall apart, add the prepared peas to the pot and simmer until the peas are very soft, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours (see Cook's Note).
Taste for seasonings, and add some hot-pepper vinegar, if desired. Discard the bay leaves and transfer the black-eyed peas to a serving bowl. Enjoy!

Cook’s Note

Using the back of a spoon, smash some of the peas against the inside of the pot then stir them into the mixture. This will break up some of the peas and give them a creamier consistency. You can also puree 1 cup of the peas and broth in a blender or a food processor, then return the puree to the pot.

Holiday Craft - DIY Pipe Cleaners Snowflake Coasters (via Sugar & Charm)

These easy and cute pipe cleaner coasters are perfect for holiday entertaining! Such a cute way to add some sparkle to your table. These can also be turned into a garland, or hung on a tree.

Supplies

Hot Glue Gun
Scissors
White or blue pipe-cleaners
(optional) Glitter

Directions:

Cut three 3 inch pieces of pipe cleaner for the base of the snowflake.
Then cut six 1 inch pieces and six ¾ inch pieces for the design in the center
Using the hot glue gun, glue the three 3 inch pieces in a star shape (base)
Glue the smaller pieces onto each end to create a unique design for each snowflake. You can vary sizes and lengths or the pieces to make whatever type of snowflake you want! Add some glitter to the snowflake at the end for extra sparkle if desired.

Upcoming Events

Portland Parks & Rec // Adaptive & Inclusive Recreation (FREE Events!)

For more information on all of the below events, contact Jane Doyle (PP&R AIR Program Coordinator) at jane.doyle@portlandoregon.gov or by phone at 503-307-4131.

AIR & PSU Capstone Virtual Holiday Dance

Join in the JINGLE BALL for a night of music and dance (festive sweaters optional)!

For more information, or to request a song, contact Jane at the information above.

Date/Time: Friday, December 3rd, 6:00 – 8:00 PM

Zoom link

Meeting ID: 824 6485 3418

Passcode: 476476

AIR & PSU Capstone Drawing Group (Doodle Zoom)

Join PSU for a guided drawing art activity! Don’t forget to bring paper and coloring utensils (crayons, markers, etc)

Date/Time: Sunday, December 5th / 6:30-8:00PM

Zoom Link

Meeting ID: 85360903442

AIR & PSU Capstone Cooking Night

Join in on a virtual cooking event! Learn to make hummus, carbonara and no-bake cookies.

Date/Time: Monday, December 6th / 5:30-7:30PM

Zoom link

Password: cooking

PHAME Events

PHAME’s Annual Winter Concert

This year’s event will be a virtual extravaganza celebrating winter! There will be collaborative virtual choir videos as well as original video projects from PHAME students. This event is free and open to anyone!

Date/Time: Wednesday, December 15, 2021 / 6:30 – 7:30 PM

Register here!

Save the Date: PHAMEtastic 2022

Get ready to tune into PHAMEtastic in the new year! Join all your friends at PHAME for their virtual gala. There will be a costume contest (theme is TV characters), unforgettable performances by your favorite PHAME students, and of course, making a difference for adults with developmental disabilities as they pursue their passion for the arts.

Date/Time: Wednesday, March 16, 2022 / Preshow, 6:00PM // Livestream, 6:30PM

Pre-register here!

This virtual event is free. Pre-register now to get the full PHAMEtastic experience! Look out for more information in the new year.

Newsletter: Friday, December 3rd