Oregon Commission for Women facts for kids

The Oregon Commission for Women is a special group in Oregon that works to make life better for women and girls. It helps make sure women have equal opportunities in many areas, like jobs, laws, and how they are treated in society.

How the Commission Started

The idea for this commission began a long time ago. In 1964, the Governor of Oregon, Mark Hatfield, created the Governor’s Commission on the Status of Women. His goal was to have a group that could tell him about the important needs and concerns of women living in Oregon.

Later, in 1983, another Governor, Victor Atiyeh, made the commission even stronger. He gave it "independent agency status." This means it became its own official organization. At the same time, the Oregon Legislature (which is like Oregon's law-making body) officially created the Oregon Commission for Women.

What the Commission Does

The main job of the Oregon Commission for Women is to work for equality. This means they want women to have the same chances and rights as everyone else. They focus on several key areas:

• Economic equality: Making sure women have fair opportunities in jobs and money.
• Social equality: Helping women be treated fairly in everyday life and society.
• Legal equality: Working to make sure laws are fair for women.
• Political equality: Encouraging women to be involved in government and leadership.

The commission also keeps checking on the needs and issues that women and girls in Oregon face. They want to understand what challenges women are dealing with so they can help find solutions.

Who Leads the Commission

The commission is guided by a group of 11 people called a board of directors. These people are very involved in deciding what the commission should do and how it can grow to help more women.

Honoring Amazing Women

Since 1985, the Oregon Commission for Women has celebrated many incredible women. They have honored 77 women who have made a big difference in the lives of other women in Oregon. This special recognition is called the Oregon Women of Achievement award. It's a way for the state to say "thank you" for their hard work and accomplishments.

Some people who have been part of the commission in the past include Marian Milligan and Eleanor R. Davis. Their efforts, and the efforts of many others, have helped the commission continue its important work for women in Oregon.