I bet you didn’t know that there are over 4,000 variations of native Peruvian potatoes. If you’ve ever been to a Peruvian restaurant, you may have seen a lot of purple potatoes and various yellow potatoes. Having a Peruvian mother has been a blessing in so many ways; one of which is always coming home to an amazing meal with those potatoes that make a great causa (similar to a potato lasagna), a ceviche or lomo saltado. Food reminds us of places and moments and is such a big part of the culture of any society.

Celebrating Latino Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15), I’m reminded of the wonderful Latino side of my heritage. Full disclosure: I’m a terrible salsa dancer but grateful my mother taught me Spanish.

As I was breaking bread with some fellow Latinos at a wonderful BBQ this summer at St. Ignatius in southeast Portland, we greeted each other with a hug and a kiss on the cheek, as is culturally traditional. We began to discuss the foods we would’ve eaten had we been in parts of Central or South America. In fact, in many parishes with a large Latino population, having a meal after mass is weekly tradition.

I’m proud of the Latino heritage that is not just present in restaurants but in the contributions of Latinos have made from fighting for fair farm labor rights, representation in acting and music, to serving on the Supreme Court of the United States.

So, as we celebrate Latino Heritage Month, let us celebrate the accomplishments of a culture which in their own struggle has made our country more equitable for all.

Frank So

Executive Director

We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community.” - Cesar Chavez

EMO is hiring for a Public Relations Specialist.

Join Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon's talented team making a difference in Oregon! For nearly 50 years, EMO has been advocating for the marginalized and serving those in need. Our unique approach brings together advocacy, education and direct service. As EMO’s Public Relations Specialist, you’ll lead efforts to raise awareness of our organization and the services we provide to a wider audience.

EMO has been named one the 2023 "Top Work Places" by the Oregonian, and we offer a generous benefits package.

Visit our employment page for more details about the Public Relations Specialist and other open positions (below) and how to apply.

• EMO Central Office: Public Relations Specialist
• HIV Services: Operations Assistant
• Slavic Oregon Social Services: Financial Empowerment Advocate, Housing Coordinator, Qualified Mental Health Professional, Ukraine Case Manager
• SOAR Immigration Legal Services: Education Coordinator, Managing Attorney (Affirmative Program)

Cooling Portland

Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon has received a grant through the Cooling Portland program to distribute portable AC units to heat vulnerable homes in Portland. If you or someone you know may qualify, please fill out our Cooling Portland Interest Form.

EMO's 2023 Gala: Love in Action

Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023

Virtual program begins at 6:30 p.m.

Reservations are now closed for in person tickets to EMO’s annual “Love in Action” gala, but you may still register to join the gala virtually!

Funds raised at the gala make possible our work to build a just, equitable and compassionate world. We will also honor extraordinary individuals and organizations whose courage, moral vision and commitment to action have contributed profoundly to making Oregon, and the world, a better place.

Learn more about the Gala and register at emoregon.ejoinme.org/gala.

Anti-racism Learning Circles

First Unitarian Church in Portland invites you to join "Antiracism Learning Circles" this fall. It’s on Zoom, so you can join from anywhere!

LEARNING CIRCLES are small discussion cohorts based on a book or podcast that provide:

• Important learning about white supremacy, racism, and our national history;
• The opportunity to build trust and go deep in small group discussions over time;
• A safe place to have difficult discussions and deal with discomfort;
• Creating and strengthening relationships with other UUs; and
• Connection, focus and purpose in a virtual setting.

Learn more and sign up now. For questions, contact Jody Feldman at feldmanjody@gmail.com.

Stay Connected with EMO

503-221-1054 | emo@emoregon.org | emoregon.org