Kayse Jama facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Kayse Jama
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| Majority Leader of the Oregon Senate | |
| Assumed office November 16, 2024 |
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| Preceded by | Kathleen Taylor |
| Member of the Oregon Senate from the 24th district |
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| Assumed office January 6, 2021 |
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| Preceded by | Shemia Fagan |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1973/1974 (age 51–52) Somalia |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Stephanie Stephens |
| Children | 2 |
| Education | Marylhurst University (BA) |
| Signature |  |
Kayse Jama is an American politician who helps lead the state of Oregon. He is currently the Majority Leader in the Oregon State Senate. This means he is a very important leader for the Democratic members in the Senate. He represents Oregon's 24th Senate district, which includes parts of Clackamas and Multnomah Counties. Kayse Jama was chosen for this role to take the place of Shemia Fagan, who became Oregon's Secretary of State in 2021.
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Early Life and Education
Kayse Jama was born in Somalia into a family that moved around a lot. When he was eight years old, he moved to the capital city, Mogadishu, to start school. He finished high school just as a big conflict began in his home country. For several years, he lived as a refugee, which means he had to leave his home to find safety.
In 1998, he arrived in San Diego, California, in the United States. Soon after, he moved to Portland, Oregon. He worked at a hotel and also helped other new refugees. He helped them get used to life in the U.S. as a case manager. Later, he earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from Marylhurst University.
Making a Difference: His Career
Kayse Jama has spent his career working to help people and make communities stronger. He has held important roles both in non-profit organizations and in government.
In 2021, he became a member of the Oregon State Senate. He took over from Shemia Fagan, who was elected to a different state job. As a State Senator, he represents East Portland and North Clackamas. He made history by becoming the first Muslim person to serve in the Oregon State Legislature. He is also the first former refugee to serve in the Oregon State Senate.
From 2005 to 2007, Kayse Jama helped train leaders from immigrant and refugee communities. He worked in five different states: Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. This was part of a special program called the New Voices Fellowship.
Leading Unite Oregon
In 2002, Kayse Jama helped start an organization called the Center for Intercultural Organizing. It is now known as Unite Oregon. He decided to start this group after seeing unfair treatment towards people from different backgrounds in Portland. This happened after a big event in 2001.
Kayse Jama was the director of Unite Oregon until 2021. During his time there, he led many efforts to make things better. He worked on campaigns to reduce the influence of money in politics. He also worked to stop police profiling and change laws about hate crimes. He helped expand programs that offer drug treatment. Kayse Jama also helped create important groups like Fair Shot for All. He also helped form the Oregon Health Equity Alliance.
Serving in the Oregon Senate
In the Oregon State Senate, Kayse Jama works on several important committees. He is the chair of the Senate Committee on Housing and Development. This committee works on issues related to homes and building new areas. He also serves on the Senate Committee on Labor and Business. He is part of a joint committee that deals with transportation and economic development.
On November 16, 2024, Kayse Jama was chosen to be the Senate Majority Leader. This is a very important leadership position in the Oregon Senate.
Awards and Recognition
Kayse Jama has received many awards for his hard work and dedication. These awards show how much he has helped his community.
- In 2007, he received the Skidmore Prize. This award is for excellent young non-profit professionals.
- In 2008, he got the Oregon Immigrant Achievement Award.
- In 2009, he was given the Lowenstein Trust Award. This award goes to someone who helps the poor and underprivileged in Portland.
- In 2012, he received the Portland Peace Prize.
- In 2016, he earned the Rankin Award. This award recognizes a person's lifelong work and amazing service.
- In 2017, he received the Tribune of Worker Justice Award. This award celebrated his efforts to improve the lives of immigrant and low-wage workers in Oregon.
- In 2019, he was given a Strengthening Democracy Fellowship.
Family Life
In 2004, Kayse Jama married Stephanie D. Stephens. She is also involved in public service. Stephanie serves on the David Douglas School Board in Portland, Oregon. In 2010, Kayse and Stephanie welcomed their twins, a son named Sahan and a daughter named Saharla.
