Storytelling for Change: Reflecting on Our Day in Salem

By Sentilla Hawley | January 2025

At Verde, we know that real change starts with real stories—those that come from the heart, shaped by lived experiences, and rooted in the challenges our communities face every day. On our Day in Salem, alongside our partners at Willamette Partnership, we witnessed the incredible power of these stories in action.

This was more than an event; it was a movement. Community members gathered at the Oregon State Capitol to speak truth to power to elected officials, sharing their journeys of resilience and determination in the face of environmental justice challenges. Water, energy, transportation, air quality, and climate issues—all were brought to the forefront through the lens of lived experience.

Preparation for Action

Leading up to this powerful in-person gathering, participants joined a series of virtual workshops designed to prepare them for advocacy. From mastering the art of storytelling to understanding the legislative process and diving deep into pressing environmental justice issues, these sessions equipped attendees with the tools to amplify their voices effectively.

Orquidia Velasquez, one of our participants, shared her journey:

"The program had such an impact on me: I never thought I would be going to Salem to speak with our representatives! The workshop taught me about who is in my district, and later, I found a bag and forms that told me about their biographies and life stories."

Building Connections and Inspiring Change

On the day of the event, the Capitol was alive with conversation and collaboration. Community members met with state representatives, sharing their deeply personal stories about the environmental justice issues impacting their lives and communities. These were not just meetings—they were moments of connection where legislators could see, hear, and feel the urgency behind the policies they shape.

Beyond these crucial conversations, the event fostered relationships among participants, creating a network of changemakers united by a shared vision of justice and equity.

The Ripples of Storytelling

Storytelling can create ripples of change, and our Day in Salem is just the beginning. The courage shown by our community members is already sparking action, not only in legislative halls but in hearts and minds across Oregon.

As we look to the future, we are inspired by what we saw and heard. Together, we will continue to elevate community voices, advocate for meaningful change, and work toward a world where environmental justice is a reality for all.

Thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and stood with us on this incredible day. Your voices matter. Your stories matter.