OHA Updated Mask Guidelines

On May 18, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) released updated mask guidelines for fully vaccinated people. These changes are the first steps towards everything being back to “normal”. Just like when things shut down, as things start to open back up there may be confusion on what is safe or not safe. We want to provide people with the most accurate and current information, listed below. It’s important to remember that COVID 19 is still impacting people and there are constant studies happening on new variants.

*Note: unvaccinated people are still required to wear a mask in each of these situations.

The most important points from the OHA Guidelines are:

Vaccinated people are protected against the most serious risks, including death, from COVID 19.
Vaccinated people are less likely to spread COVID 19 should they develop a breakthrough case.

For Vaccinated People:

Masks are no longer required outdoors, although they are still encouraged in crowded places like outdoor concerts and sporting events.
Fully vaccinated people may not need to wear a mask indoors in public places where vaccine status is checked before entry. Masks will still be required where people are not asked about their vaccination status. Masks will still likely be required most places that we go.
Businesses, workplaces and faith institutions have the right to choose their own masking policies for fully vaccinated individuals, but they must require review of proof of vaccination if they do not require masks

Unvaccinated and vaccinated people are still required to wear masks and stay 6 feet away from others on public transportation (including buses), in airports and on airplanes, in schools, health care settings, homeless shelters, youth/adult correctional facilities and long-term care facilities.

Other than getting vaccinated, masks are one of the best ways to protect against COVID-19. If you are unsure about the guidelines of a specific place, ask! Or better yet, wear your mask regardless of the guidelines.

OSHA (the Occupational Safety & Health Administration) has reccomended that offices may choose to check vaccination status, and allow employees and visitors not to wear masks with proof of vaccination. Offices can continue to wear masks if they choose to. CPI’s offices will continue enforcing the mask guidelines at this time. Oregon guidance on masks for Personal Support Workers and other providers hasn’t changed - workers are still required to wear masks during visits.

For updated OSHA guidelines for offices, see here.

For more information on guidance for fully vaccinated individuals, see here.

For statewide mask and reopening guidance, see here.

For the ODDS re-opening guide for agencies, DSA programs and employment, see here.

For the ODDS re-opening guide for case management, see here.

For more information about vaccinations in Oregon, see here.

Portland Disability Engagement Study

Source: Real Choice Oregon — *Source:* *Real Choice Oregon*

Do you have any health conditions that impact the way you live your life? Did you know there’s something simple you could do to improve the lives of people with disabilities and serious health concerns here in Portland?

The Real Choice Initiative is leading the city’s first ever study of people with disabilities for Portland State University and the City of Portland!

Take the survey here! It is available in 5 languages. You may also call Real Choice Initiative to take the survey over the phone, at 503-877-5418.

The first 100 people to complete the survey are eligible for a $20 Visa gift card.

Open Future Learning – New Module

Source: Open Future Learning — *Source:* *Open Future Learning*

OFL Has just launched an awesome new module about Down Syndrome and produced a really cool video to go along with it! Check out the video here.

To learn more, go to OFL’s Website or follow them on Instagram (@open_future_learning), Twitter (@Open_Future) and Facebook.

PRIDE Month

LGBTQ+ Pride Month occurs in the United States to commemorate the Stonewall riots, which occurred at the end of June 1969. As a result, many pride events are held during this month to recognize the impact LGBTQ+ people have had on the world.

Our local Pride chapter is called Pride NW. For more information on their advocacy efforts and programs, see their website.

We hope that if you choose to, you will celebrate safely and joyfully. Happy Pride!

Local Pride Events, 2021

Source: Portland Pride — *Source:* *Portland Pride*

Portland usually celebrates Pride month with a parade, festival, live music and many other community events! Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, this year there will be no Portland Pride Waterfront Festival. Instead, there will be several virtual events and small in-person events.

Visit Portland Pride for more details!

LGBTQ+ Veterans Pride Extravaganza: Movie: Q&A and Drag Queen Bingo (FREE)

Saturday, June 12th, 12:30-3:30 PM

Join via Zoom for a viewing of the film Breaking the Silence: Stories of Oregon's LGBTQ Veterans, followed by a Q & A with:

LGBT Veteran Care Coordinators from the VA Portland Health Care System
County Veteran Service Officers answer your VA claims questions
Project Visibility: LGBTQ+ Friendly Aging Service and Care
Plus: Virtual Drag Queen BINGO with prizes!

Veterans that identify as LGBTQ+ and allies are welcome!

Register here!

PRIDE PICS: Two Full Days of Queer Films - Zidell Yards

Celebrate queer stories on screen with PRIDE PICS: a socially distanced, two-day showcase of new, LGBTQ+ films on the big screen at The Lot at Zidell Yards! Enjoy local food and drinks, sit in custom seating pods, and watch 12 queer debut films and documentaries.

For more information, including how to buy tickets, see here!

Location: Zidell Yards, 3121 S Moody Ave, Portland, OR

Dates/Times:

Wednesday, June 16th, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM
Thursday, June 17th, 11:00 AM-10:00 PM

Portland Gay Men’s Chorus’ 2021 Pride Concert: Chasing Rainbows

Dates/Times:

Friday, June 18th, 8:00 PM
Sunday, June 20th, 3:00 PM

See here for more information and to register for this free event!

2021 Virtual Portland Pride Parade

Date/Time: Sunday, June 20th 11:00AM

Sign up to participate in a community showing of the Portland Pride Parade over Zoom. The parade will also be broadcast on the Pride Northwest YouTube channel.

PRIDE Craft – Dancing Ribbon Rings (via. Buggy & Buddy)

Source: Buggy & Buddy — *Source:* *Buggy & Buddy*

The official symbol for LGBTQ+ individuals is a rainbow flag! Today we will be sharing a super easy tutorial on how to make dancing ribbon rings to join in with the celebration during PRIDE.

Materials

Three to Four inch rings (wooden or plastic)
Ribbons in rainbow colors (like these)
Scissors

Instructions

Cut your first ribbon color (red) to 36 inches. Repeat for each color (orange, yellow, green, blue and purple).
Tie your ribbons onto the ring: Pull one 36 inch ribbon through the ring and stop when it’s halfway through.
Knot it twice onto the ring. You now have two 18 inch ribbons hanging from your ring. Do this for the remaining ribbons.
Now you have a fun ring to dance with and show your PRIDE!

Juneteenth

Source: Wayside Youth — *Source:* *Wayside Youth*

Juneteenth (also known as Freedom Day) commemorates the ending of slavery in the United States, which happened on June 19th, 1865. Today, we celebrate this liberation by cultivating knowledge and appreciation of African American history, culture and achievement. Getting involved and supporting these celebrations helps to foster understanding between cultures.

History of Juneteenth

Source: History.com — *Source:* *History.com*

On June 19th, 1865, union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas, led by Major General Gordon Granger. They brought news that the Civil War had ended, and that all enslaved African Americans were now free. This was two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation (which was passed on January 1st, 1863).

The Emancipation Proclamation had little impact in the South due to the small number of Union troops located there to enforce it. After General Lee surrendered in April of 1865, and General Granger’s troops arrived in Texas, the forces were finally strong enough do so.

Some of the newly freed African Americans stayed where they were, but many left, either to go North or to attempt to reach family members in neighboring states. Juneteenth became a time to comfort each other, to pray and gather remaining family members back together. Juneteenth celebrations continued for many years, although little interest existed outside the African American community until the mid 20th century.

On January 1st, 1980, Texas became the first state to declare Juneteenth an official holiday, through the efforts of Al Edwards (an African American state legislator).

Today, Juneteenth is celebrated all over the county, to celebrate African American freedom and achievement. It encourages self-development and respect for all cultures, and is recognized as a national day of pride.

For more information about Juneteenth and its history, see here and here.

Juneteenth Community Celebrations

Source: Juneteenth Oregon — *Source:* Juneteenth Oregon

In Portland, celebrating Juneteenth began in the shipyards in 1945 by Clara Peoples. Clara brought the tradition from Muskogee, Oklahoma, and introduced the celebration to her coworkers while on their break. In 1972, she helped organize Portland’s first annual Juneteenth celebration. For more information on Clara and on the history of Juneteenth in Oregon, see here. For an interview with Clara’s grandson (including a video!), see here.

As of 2020, Governor Kate Brown declared Juneteenth a state holiday in Oregon. There are a number of ways to safely celebrate this event in the community this year!

2021 Juneteenth Oregon Celebration

The 49th Annual Juneteenth Oregon celebration will be happening via free Livestream this year. There will be live music performances and several special appearances!

Date & Time: Saturday, June 19th 2021, 1:00PM PST

Watch live:

juneteenthor.com (Facebook: @JuneteenthOregon15 / Instagram @juneteenthor)

or

pdxjazz.com (Facebook: @PDXJazzPortland / Instagram @pdxjazz)

Support Black Owned Businesses

Source: Portland Monthly — *Source:* *Portland Monthly*

There are so many awesome black owned businesses in the Portland Metro area. Supporting these businesses is a great way to be an ally to our African-American community!

For a list of black-owned restaurants in Portland, see here.

Portland Monthly also has a great directory of local black-owned businesses (with photos!) here, and a list of black-owned fashion brands here.

Office Closure - Juneteenth

Our offices will be closed Friday, June 18th in observance of Juneteenth. We will reopen Monday, June 21st.

This Juneteenth, Community Pathways recognizes the progress our country has made in securing equal rights and freedoms for African Americans, but the work is unfinished. We must all stand together and speak out against racism and inequality in our community, and in our country.

Upcoming Events

This month we have A TON of events and activities listed that will be taking place in the community! Make sure to read through and check out some awesome social and advocacy opportunities.

DD GO! Project Advocacy Days

Source: ORDD Coalition — *Source:* *ORDD Coalition*

Join the Oregon DD Coalition’s GO! Project Advocacy Team online next Wednesday to learn about:

Legislative Budget Priorities
Advocacy Strategies

Date/Time: Wednesday, June 9, 10:00AM – 12:00PM PST

Zoom link, meeting no: 6807712609

The GO! Project created a series of training videos about DD Advocacy on their YouTube channel! Check them out there or on their Facebook page for more information.

Fireside Chat – Hosted by UCP Connections

Join other advocates to talk about the difficulties, oppression and barriers that individuals with I/DD live with every day. Discuss the future we want, together! The group will meet on the 4th Thursday of every month via Zoom.

Date/Time: Thursday, June 24th / 2:00PM – 4:00PM

To join, go to ZOOM and type in the Meeting ID (842 8143 4109).

Contact Glenna Hayes at UCP Connections for more information.

Autism Society of Oregon (ASO) Support & Social Groups

The following ASO-sponsored Support and Social Groups are meeting online during the pandemic. All groups are free!

ASO Happy Hour for Adults (Medford-based)

Join your peers who are on the Autism Spectrum to chat, support each other and forge new friendships! Every 2nd and 4th Friday of each month.

Date/Time: Friday, June 11, 7:30 - 8:30pm

For more information, including how to participate, send an email to ASO.

ASO Teen/Young Women Friendship Group (SW Portland-based)

Join your female-identifying peers who are on the Autism Spectrum every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month! Ages 16+.

Dates/Times: Sunday, June 6th and June 20th / 3:00-4:30PM

For more information, including how to participate, send an email to Kim.

ASO Young/Adult Social Group (Portland-based)

Join a peer-led group for young adults (ages 18-30) who have graduated from high school! Two group consultants will support participants to make connections (not a skill building class).

Dates/Times: Saturday, June 12 and Monday, June 21 / 6:30PM – 8:00 PM

For more information, including how to participate, send an email to ASO.

ASO Parent & Teen Online Social Group

This group is for autistic teens (Ages 13-19) who need a supporter (parent/caregiver) to participate. Meet new people and make friends in a welcoming and supporting environment! Group meets the 3rd Saturday of each month.

Date/Time: Saturday, June 19 / 1:00PM – 2:00PM

Register here and get zoom link!

ASO Social Skills Discussion Group (Eugene-based)

This group is for adults, ages 18+ to develop social skills! Group will be facilitated until in-person social contact is safe. All are welcome to attend the 3rd Monday of each month!

Date/Time: Monday, June 21st / 6:30PM

For more information, including how to participate via Zoom, email Mary-Minn.

Source: HousingIndependence — *Source:* *HousingIndependence*

Housing Independence Events

During the month of June, Housing Independence is hosting more great events such as:

Movie Night (this month they are doing sequels like Back to the Future 2!)
Read Along (continuing the Harry Potter series with the Chamber of Secrets)
Karaoke with Tyler
Dungeons & Dragons (using online platforms)
Zoo Excursion (via Zoom)

See their full list of events and dates in their June newsletter here!

How do I sign up for Housing Independence events?

If you are not a current Housing Independence client, you may try out 4 events with them, free of charge, supplies included. If you enjoy the events and would like to become a client of Housing Independence, let Rene know!

To sign up or learn more about their events, please reach out via text (503) 719 9711 or email (renea@housingindependence.org).

Portland Parks & Rec Adaptive & Inclusive Recreation (AIR) Events

New Pricing—Pay What You Can

Thanks to the passing of the 2020 Parks Local Option Levy (Parks Levy), AIR is starting a new “Pay What You Can” option for summer 2021. This allows City of Portland residents to access flexible payment options based on their family’s needs.

*Please note, the pay what you can payment option replaces their former scholarship program this summer and does not require an application.

Virtual AIR Events

Cooking with Dawn | Ages: 16 and up—New day and time!
Monday | 4:30–6:00pm | $15
June 21–July 19 (No class Monday, July 5) | Course: 1133451
Drum Circle | Ages: 12 and up—New day!
Monday | 3:00–3:45pm | FREE
June 21–August 23 (No class Monday, July 5) | Course: 1136383
Book Club: Harry Potter—The Chamber of Secrets | Ages: 12 and up
Thursday | 4:00–5:00pm | FREE
June 24–August 26 | Course: 1136384
Bingo | Ages: 12 and up
Friday | 2:00–3:30pm | $15
June 25–July 23 | Course: 1136380

In-Person AIR Programs

All in-person programs will follow state and local guidelines. Participants will be required to sign a waiver during registration, wear a face covering, and maintain 6 feet of physical distance. Please contact AIR with questions or accommodation requests for face coverings.

Camps

Experience our Portland parks firsthand through hiking, games, hands-on activities, nature play, and forest crafts. Be active, have fun and learn about nature in this 3-day a week camp. Criteria to attend: Participant must be able to stay with the group at all times and follow directions. There will be no personal care for participants over the age of 5.

Teen Explorer Camp | Ages: 12–21
Tuesday–Thursday | 9:00am–1:30pm | $125/per week, can be reduced to $15*

Adult Explorer Camp | Ages: 18 and up
Tuesday–Thursday | 9:00am–1:30pm | $125/per week, can be reduced to $15*

Gateway Discovery Park | July 13–15 | Course: 1130124

Bowling | Ages: 16 and up—Now a registered class!
Wednesday | 3:00–4:30pm | $40, can be reduced to $30*
Beginners to advanced bowlers are welcome! Fee includes two games, shoes, and ball for five weeks.

June 23–July 21 | Course: 1130321

Friends, Food and Fun | Ages: 18 and up
Tuesday | 4:30–6:00pm | $25, can be reduced to $15*
Feast royally on theme cuisine around town with delicious dishes from appetizer to dessert. Expand your knowledge of cultures and tastes in a social setting. Meet us at the locations listed below. We will be following all CDC guidelines.

Trips | Ages: 18 and up

Participants and chaperones will meet at the locations below for summer 2021 trips. If bringing your own aid, please let AIR staff know when registering.

Portland Zoo
Saturday, June 26 | 9:45am–3:45pm | Course: 1133443
$50, can be reduced to $20*
There will be a lot of walking on this trip. Price includes cost of zoo admission. Scheduled time for entry. Bring a sack lunch and money for the gift shop. Mobility Rating: This trip is accessible.
Putt Putt Golf
Saturday, July 10 | 9:45am–1:00pm | Course: 1133444
$30, can be reduced to $15*
There will be a lot of walking on this trip. Price of trip includes admission to golf. Bring money for lunch. Mobility Rating: This is not an accessible trip.
Lan Su Chinese Gardens Chinese Garden
Saturday, July 17 | 9:30am–1:30pm | Course: 1136375
$45, can be reduced to $15*
Experience the largest authentic urban Suzhou-style Chinese garden outside of China. Price of trip (at the base rate) covers admission to garden. End the day with lunch at a Chinese restaurant. Bring $20 for lunch. Mobility Rating: This trip is accessible.
Park, Pizza and Play
Saturday, July 24 | 11:00am–2:30pm | Course: 1133447
$25, can be reduced to $15*
Lunch followed by outdoor games and a walk through Peninsula Park Rose Garden. Pizza and soda is included. Bring sunscreen and a hat. Mobility Rating: This trip is accessible.

Portland Parks & Rec / Portland State University Events

Join Portland Parks & Rec and PSU for a few FREE virtual events this month! If you have questions about signing up (or anything else), contact Jane Doyle at jane.doyle@portlandoregon.gov or call 503-307-4131.

AIR “Dance Into Summer” Virtual Dance Party