By Sam Diaz and Gil Kelley | 2-minute read
As the holiday season gets underway, we are reminded of the enduring power of stories. We share stories to laugh, to commiserate, to bond, and to carry traditions and values forward. Historian Yuval Honah Harari has credited storytelling as contributing to our societal evolution; it is one of human beings’ super powers.
But there are growing threats to our ability to share stories, to find real connection and community, and to distinguish what is true and what is false. Pew Research Center notes that a majority of Americans receive their information from digital platforms like social media, where disinformation and division can spread rapidly.
Now more than ever, it is vital to slow down, to really listen and connect with each other, and to cultivate durable solutions that can create a better Oregon for everyone. We can’t—and won’t—be pitted against one another. Instead, we remain focused and determined to improve the lives and livelihoods of all Oregonians through tangible policies and funding our communities.
We can’t—and won’t—be pitted against one another. Instead, we remain focused and determined to improve the lives and livelihoods of all Oregonians through tangible policies and funding our communities.
In this year's Annual Report, you’ll see what can happen when communities come together, share stories, and organize. They fight—and often win—to protect agricultural and forest lands. They forge new coalitions to deliver transportation solutions. They envision and enact policies that create more livable communities for everyone. In all of these stories, you will see that individual well-being is linked with the well-being of our communities, the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the landscapes and ecosystems that carry us.
These collective efforts reflect the simple truth that Oregon is worth fighting for.
After celebrating our 50th anniversary last year, we spent time hearing ideas, concerns, and questions from hundreds of supporters as part of our creative discovery process. Ultimately, we adopted a new strategic plan with five core areas: For our democracy, for our prosperity, for our communities, for our land, and for our humanity.
As we fight for an Oregon that we can be proud to call home, we invite you to bring your perspective to this cause—whether it’s online or in person at one of the many workshops, meetings, tours, or other gatherings we have lined up for 2026 (keep an eye on our events page). We know that the best Oregon Story is one that is created together.
Wishing you and yours a happy holiday season. We’ll see you soon, friends!
