Healthy Democracy Oregon Blog

On the final day of the review, all 23 panelists came together in what was described as a 'Closing Circle' to share their personal reflections and their reactions to the process. In the voices of these citizens is where we find the greatest argument for the Citizens' Initiative Review. Listening to them, it is clear that this new democratic process not only provides an environment for enlightened and civil policy discussion, but that it can also serve as a catalyst for civic engagement. In the days and weeks ahead, we will be updating our website with more videos from the Citizens' Initiative Review demonstration, so be on the lookout. I can tell you from observing the entire review myself, that the 'Closing Circle' was just one of many fascinating and inspirational moments from the demonstration.

UPDATE: Upon completing the state’s first ever Citizens’ Initiative Review and press conference was held on the steps of the state capitol to announce the results. The panel of 23 voters from across Oregon tasked with evaluating Measure 58, which deals with limiting bilingual education in public schools. After hearing testimony from the campaigns from and against Measure 58, along with background witnesses and policy experts, 9 panelists chose to support the measure, while 14 rejected it. The panelist drafted a Citizens’ Statement describing their reasons for support and opposition.           Over the coming weeks Healthy Democracy Oregon will be releasing video from the Review along with documents provided to the panel as part of the advocacy team presentations. Click here for the Citizens’ Statement on Ballot Measure 58 Here is video from the press conference held on 9/25/2008

The online survey revealed there's a lot of interest in most of the ballot measures. In fact, we basically had a five-way split with the results. So, we've decided to engage our supporters in a different way.

Our public event Tuesday night was a great success- we finished the selection of Oregon's first Citizens' Initiative Review panel! A big thanks to all who helped out or attended.