Turn over a rock in Salem and--golly!--some interesting creatures crawl out. The happy gang running "certification" (a gross joke, as any "certified" person will tell you) are in fact running a money laundry and cut-out for scads of public money. No surprise that this comes out of the OHA--those wonderful folks who brought you the lockdowns and vax mandates.
If there was an effective opposition in Oregon state politics, there would be a legislative hearing and top-to-bottom audit of the OHA. What a jolly affair that would be!
Thanks, Richard. OHA just might be the worst offender in Oregon, which is saying something. Every time I did into something they've done/are doing, it's messed up and expensive for taxpayers.
Thank you for writing about this! I second the suggestion to also look into the corruption at Alano Club with Brent Canode! He is another known individual who's financial practices need to be investigated! I would also look into the many former staff and what they have endured, particularly woman! There is another story here! It's time to get these people out of leadership.
just read your article on Amanda Marshall and in the comments a person who worked her recounted the crap she pulled during her own sexual harassment case. And guess who was Eric Martin’s lawyer in this story Amanda Marshall. And there are so many similarties between the experiences of the male attorney, where she harassed, stalked, and he received death threats to my story its freightening and, I too believe that the same actions happened to me and while I can’t prove it and don’t know how I could I left Oregon for fear of my life where I was stalked online with texts from anonymous profiles blasting me, followed by cars and people, bullied, harassed by random people it was unparalleled. She sent 2 cease and desist a letters threatening my job on behalf of Eric Martin so one night after I felt like I was in sone sort of investigation I packed up my car and left in the middle of the night to another state didn’t tell anyone where I was because I thought my life or freedom was in serious jeopardy, to some degree I’m still in hiding for fear of coming back into Oregon the state i was raised and have deep roots
Jeff your work on exposing the continued corruption within our government and their nonprofit cronies is exemplary. I’m not sure how you don’t throw your computer through the window as you uncover these sad facts but Bravo to you. The swamp is very deep, I’m really not sure it will ever be drained. Keep on keeping on!
I was the one supporting Mike during all of this traumatic experience and the one that sent the NADAC complaint and emails to Rob Nose he was "in bed with Eric" the whole time.
I call all of thise corrupt group the recovery mafia, being a woman with nearly 30 years in long-term recovery I have been an advocate and activist in Oregon for nearly 30 years. Prior to this I personally observed how the mafia works and I called out this corrupt recovery mafia nearly 15 years ago and nobody pays attention to how they operate.
You may also want to check into alano clubs leader Brent canode the corruption expands much further than this article.
All of these so-called recovery leaders praying on those who have lived a life of oppression and low income and strategically placing them in positions to be paid to push an agenda they are manipulated and mentored by the recovery mafia and they have all monopolized how the system is replicating more of the same creating recovery mentors to become mini clinicians that is not the evidence-based practice of peer fidelity that is truly driven by this recovery mafia to fill their own personal pockets They are driven by power ego and greed and it's pretty f***** up.
I have sat on state and legislative committees for decades trying to change the system and these corrupt egotistical mafia leaders come in and undo what many of us have been working towards long before I arrived decades ago...
Truly heartbreaking and infuriating and I can't wait for more of this to be exposed.
Hi, Angel. Thanks for your comment. The Portland recovery nonprofit community, or at least significant segments of it, seems to be pretty messed up. That's costly for Oregonians because those nonprofits get lots of public money and, more importantly, the self-dealing and weirdness in that community prevent them from doing the jobs they're supposed to do. And no one at the state cares.
I am so glad that these people are finally beginning to be held accountable for their actions. The fact that THE main person and body in charge of certifying addition and mental health workers, which certification includes ethics and boundaries training held by Eric Martin --OF ALL PEOPLE--is despicable. These things have been going on foe years with Eric Martin and Tony Vezina and finally we are seeing these stories brought to life.
I have more information about these two that I would love to come forward with.
The truth always comes out and shall set you free.
it would appear that the only way the present administration in Oregon is able to make the vast tax revenues and federal largess disappear is by skimming the substantial cream off the top. it is certainly not getting to those for whom it was intended. keep trying, Mr. Eager, sooner or later people will have to listen.
Yes coming from Louisiana my wife, working for/running in house counsel on a very connected attorney, was/is dumbfounded at the assumption of the average Oregonian that everything government wise is on the up and up. It took almost no time for her to notice things were not necessarily on the up and up
Step-by-Step Guide to Prompt Legal Action by the Oregon Attorney General's Office
1. Collect Evidence:
Documentation: Gather all relevant documents, including financial records, emails, internal reports, and witness statements that detail the corruption and misuse of funds by Tony Vezina, Eric Martin, and others.
Interviews: Record testimonies from affected individuals and employees who can provide firsthand accounts of the mismanagement and unethical practices.
2. Submit a Formal Complaint:
Prepare the Complaint: Draft a detailed complaint letter outlining the allegations, supported by the collected evidence. Include specific incidents, dates, and the impact of the alleged misconduct.
Submission: Submit the complaint to the Oregon Attorney General’s office through their online complaint form or by mail. Ensure that you keep copies of all submitted documents.
Sample Complaint Letter:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum
Oregon Department of Justice
1162 Court St. NE
Salem, OR 97301-4096
Dear Attorney General Rosenblum,
I am writing to request an investigation into the alleged corruption involving .... ......, .... ......, and others within Oregon’s addiction recovery sector. These individuals are accused of mismanaging state funds, exploiting vulnerable populations, and perpetuating systemic racial inequities.
Enclosed are documents and testimonies supporting these claims. I urge your office to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate legal action.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Engage the Media:
Press Release: Draft and distribute a press release to local media outlets detailing the allegations and the submission of your complaint.
Interviews: Arrange interviews with journalists to discuss the issue and highlight the need for accountability.
Social Media: Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to share information and garner public support. Tag relevant parties and use hashtags to increase visibility.
4. Mobilize Community Support:
Petitions: Start an online petition on platforms like Change.org to gather signatures supporting the call for an investigation. Share the petition widely.
Community Meetings: Organize meetings and forums to inform the community, discuss the issue, and plan collective actions.
Coalitions: Form coalitions with advocacy groups, community organizations, and other stakeholders to amplify your efforts.
5. Contact Elected Officials:
Legislative Support: Reach out to state legislators, city council members, and other elected officials to inform them of the situation and request their support in pressuring the Attorney General’s office to act.
Briefings: Provide these officials with briefings and copies of your complaint and evidence.
6. Leverage Social Media:
Campaigns: Launch social media campaigns to raise awareness. Use hashtags, create informative posts, and engage with followers to spread the message.
Direct Appeals: Make direct appeals to the Attorney General’s office through social media platforms. Tag relevant accounts and use popular hashtags to increase reach.
7. Monitor and Follow Up:
Regular Updates: Stay in contact with the Attorney General’s office for updates on the status of your complaint.
Public Pressure: Maintain public pressure through media, social media, and community actions to ensure the issue remains a priority.
By following these steps, individuals and community groups can effectively advocate for an investigation and legal action against the corruption in Oregon's addiction recovery sector.
DOJ was aware of Razavi's allegations against Martin, and did some kind of "investigation" into it. A big part of why Oregon is such a banana (slug) republic is AG Rosenblum is entirely disinterested in pursuing corruption charges against her fellow Democrats, and Dems control everything in Oregon.
We experienced the same from AG Ellen Rosenblum and even have claims with her DOJ Crime Victims Comp fund acknowledging we are victims of a compensable crime reported by The Children's Center. I even wrote her a letter with all our abuse reports and courts orders served against the perp for over 6 years and had her staff sign for it bc she has ignored all our reports for the past 10 years and we had Immediate Danger Orders and the guy's a teacher still around children!
with due respect, complaining to the corrupt, while sometimes cathartic, is a waste of time, and only serves to augment their defenses. until the miscreants are laid bare in their morass for all to see, is futile.
Perhaps. But these are the systems we currently have, and while we may all know the truth, justice is never served by merely knowing. True justice requires action, exposure, and accountability.
Public pressure doesn't work. Writing Governor Tina Kotek doesn't work. Calling other legislature constituent offices and writing emails has not worked. Going to others in the recovery community has not worked. They are so busy trying to protect their jobs and their families that they are terrified of speaking out and they suffer the abuse and then they become the abusers within the system....it's sick. Perpetually SICK.
During my tenure at Oregon Recovers, which lasted for a year, I observed numerous unethical practices. My departure from the organization was marked by a series of perceived injustices, including a particularly unjust incident involving a co-worker. The organization fostered a "cool kids club" culture from which I was excluded. When I resigned, I submitted a detailed letter to the board outlining the lack of trauma awareness, as well as instances of racism and sexism I had witnessed. Unfortunately, I received no response, except from one individual who expressed regret for my experiences.
Following my time at Oregon Recovers, I worked for the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) for another year. My experience at OHA revealed deep-seated issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, and ableism within the organization, which I believe are rooted in a structure of white supremacy. During a leadership meeting, Steve Allen openly encouraged voting for Betsie Johnson, which I recognized as a policy violation. Despite reporting this to my supervisor, no accountability was taken. I believe my supervisor had a duty to report the incident, but she did not.
OHA, as highlighted by James Schroeder, is a highly toxic work environment. I perceive that I was subjected to retaliation when I was removed from an event related to a project I had led for six months, without any explanation, by Ebony Sloan Clarke. Currently, my claim is being investigated by the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI).
I understand your frustration and the challenges you're facing. It's disheartening to see the system working so slowly, especially when it feels like they're trying to bury the issues rather than address them. Your determination to hold them accountable is admirable and crucial. I completely agree that following through is the only way to ensure accountability.
Given the complexities of my situation, I must tread carefully to avoid jeopardizing my case as well. I know so much that I can’t divulge here. Some things I shared on social media led to retaliation from community members. It's deeply troubling what is happening, and it disgusts me that they continue to get away with it due to the stigma and discrimination against people in recovery, especially women, queer, and neurodivergent individuals. Despite their claims of diversity, equity, and inclusion, they lack a true understanding of what genuine liberation means.
Tony Venzina once told me at a dinner that I was wrong about AA being sexist, dismissed my perspective entirely. I understand that it can be difficult to see certain issues when you're in a position of privilege, like being a white man. The mural of Bill Wilson at one of their recovery centers struck me as quite ironic. I believe Tony genuinely sees himself as a significant figure in the recovery community. While his personal recovery journey is undoubtedly valuable, the monopolistic nature of his leadership in the Oregon Recovery community often seems to contradict the very principles and practices of recovery.
Liberatory practices in the context of recovery and true inclusion involve creating environments where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered. These practices prioritize trauma-informed care, equity and accessibility, empowerment and autonomy, community and connection, cultural competence, holistic support, accountability and transparency, inclusive leadership, and advocacy and activism. These principles and practices of recovery aim to create a supportive, effective, and just environment for all individuals. We are far from this in Oregon.
From the beginning, I had reservations about Tony. During our Zoom call, he appeared in a wife beater, which felt unprofessional and made me uncomfortable. But, sometimes, first impressions do matter. I’ve heard numerous disturbing stories about sexual harassment within the organization. Tony himself mentioned that his biggest HR challenges were related to sexual harassment, and I’ve heard that many non-disclosure agreements were signed, which raises legal and ethical concerns.
Although this information is second-hand, it’s troubling that Tony denies accountability for the culture he has fostered. True leadership involves taking responsibility and addressing issues transparently, not sweeping them under the rug. Over the last five years, there has been little improvement under his leadership, which feels like the definition of insanity. If I were in his position, I would promote a more diversified, inclusive, and co-created leadership approach. Unfortunately, it seems his mentors share the same narrow perspective. I once commented on his Facebook page, expressing my concern that promoting a hustle culture was insensitive, especially considering his position of power. His defensive response made it clear that he didn't see me as an equal.
I envision a future where leadership in recovery communities is genuinely shared and inclusive, reflecting the true diversity and collaborative spirit that recovery should embody. It's disheartening to see how the influence of money has distorted priorities, leading to decisions that often compromise integrity and inclusivity. Money has a way of skewing values and intentions, causing people to make choices that deviate from the core principles of genuine recovery.
I can relate to the struggle of wanting to push for change while being cautious not to jeopardize your case. It's a delicate balance. It’s also important to protect yourself from retaliation and to find the right support system, including an attorney who understands and supports your cause.
Your detailed documentation is a powerful tool, and I hope that it will eventually catch the attention of the right people. Stay strong and know that your efforts are not in vain. Change is often slow and arduous, but with persistence, it is possible. I’m here to support you in any way I can. Let's continue to push for the change we want to see.
Thanks for posting the link to the messages. It doesn’t hurt to use lewd messages to get complacent Oregonians interested in where their tax dollars go. Most Oregonians have never heard of MHACBO or MAAPPS. We have government by acronym in this state. The amounts of money are astounding. And not much to show for it. Our mainstream media are more interested in the latest drug addict who died in jail.
I’m currently working on an update on Measure 110. Among the acronyms involved: IMPACTS. It stands for Improving People’s Access to Community-based Treatment, Supports and Services (IMPACTS). It's a grant program run by the Community Justice Commission (Mike Schmidt’s old job before he got elected Multnomah County DA.)
IMPACTS has been around five years. Where’s the impact?
LOL. Look forward to your M110 piece. I've noted HJRA's social media suggests they're concerned about funding getting yanked. It was logical strategically to get rid of decrim first, but the M110 funding mechanism is like lighting taxpayer cash on fire.
The outsourcing of government responsibilities to “nonprofits” has created a shadow government which has very limited accountability, transparency or performance requirements. Portland seems to be ground zero for this behavior which essentially is a large payola scheme (politicians hand out millions, the non profits get them votes). It’s time for a moratorium on all taxpayer funded nonprofits until audits, salary limitations, transparency and performance requirements are in place.
Bravo for peeling the ugly truth off of what has passed for years in Oregon as "networking."
Called by anu other name this is still corruption and ultimately theft but with Ellen Rosenblum and her stock of Brown and now Kotek-appointed judges, the only hope is for an aggressive federal prosecution.
If you want to see an egregious example of taxpayer abuse by OHA…look nor further then the grant money they sent to a hate group by the name of SNAC BLOC.
I read there is mention of a minor in that email thread and we have been busting many child predators in Oregon lately! We are also working with Veterans for Child Rescue bc we have reported MANY IN OREGON THE PAST 10 YEARS AND MANY WHO REMAINED SILENT! https://rumble.com/PVP
Terrific reporting, Jeff.
Turn over a rock in Salem and--golly!--some interesting creatures crawl out. The happy gang running "certification" (a gross joke, as any "certified" person will tell you) are in fact running a money laundry and cut-out for scads of public money. No surprise that this comes out of the OHA--those wonderful folks who brought you the lockdowns and vax mandates.
If there was an effective opposition in Oregon state politics, there would be a legislative hearing and top-to-bottom audit of the OHA. What a jolly affair that would be!
Thanks, Richard. OHA just might be the worst offender in Oregon, which is saying something. Every time I did into something they've done/are doing, it's messed up and expensive for taxpayers.
Thank you for writing about this! I second the suggestion to also look into the corruption at Alano Club with Brent Canode! He is another known individual who's financial practices need to be investigated! I would also look into the many former staff and what they have endured, particularly woman! There is another story here! It's time to get these people out of leadership.
just read your article on Amanda Marshall and in the comments a person who worked her recounted the crap she pulled during her own sexual harassment case. And guess who was Eric Martin’s lawyer in this story Amanda Marshall. And there are so many similarties between the experiences of the male attorney, where she harassed, stalked, and he received death threats to my story its freightening and, I too believe that the same actions happened to me and while I can’t prove it and don’t know how I could I left Oregon for fear of my life where I was stalked online with texts from anonymous profiles blasting me, followed by cars and people, bullied, harassed by random people it was unparalleled. She sent 2 cease and desist a letters threatening my job on behalf of Eric Martin so one night after I felt like I was in sone sort of investigation I packed up my car and left in the middle of the night to another state didn’t tell anyone where I was because I thought my life or freedom was in serious jeopardy, to some degree I’m still in hiding for fear of coming back into Oregon the state i was raised and have deep roots
Jeff your work on exposing the continued corruption within our government and their nonprofit cronies is exemplary. I’m not sure how you don’t throw your computer through the window as you uncover these sad facts but Bravo to you. The swamp is very deep, I’m really not sure it will ever be drained. Keep on keeping on!
Thanks, Shayne!
Shocking that a "union nurse advocate" would turn a blind eye to despicable workplace behavior.
No oversight, no accountability, zero ethics, substandard outcomes and all funded by the taxpayer. More money will definitely fix the problem.
I was the one supporting Mike during all of this traumatic experience and the one that sent the NADAC complaint and emails to Rob Nose he was "in bed with Eric" the whole time.
I call all of thise corrupt group the recovery mafia, being a woman with nearly 30 years in long-term recovery I have been an advocate and activist in Oregon for nearly 30 years. Prior to this I personally observed how the mafia works and I called out this corrupt recovery mafia nearly 15 years ago and nobody pays attention to how they operate.
You may also want to check into alano clubs leader Brent canode the corruption expands much further than this article.
All of these so-called recovery leaders praying on those who have lived a life of oppression and low income and strategically placing them in positions to be paid to push an agenda they are manipulated and mentored by the recovery mafia and they have all monopolized how the system is replicating more of the same creating recovery mentors to become mini clinicians that is not the evidence-based practice of peer fidelity that is truly driven by this recovery mafia to fill their own personal pockets They are driven by power ego and greed and it's pretty f***** up.
I have sat on state and legislative committees for decades trying to change the system and these corrupt egotistical mafia leaders come in and undo what many of us have been working towards long before I arrived decades ago...
Truly heartbreaking and infuriating and I can't wait for more of this to be exposed.
Hi, Angel. Thanks for your comment. The Portland recovery nonprofit community, or at least significant segments of it, seems to be pretty messed up. That's costly for Oregonians because those nonprofits get lots of public money and, more importantly, the self-dealing and weirdness in that community prevent them from doing the jobs they're supposed to do. And no one at the state cares.
I am trying to expose some of the safety practices, oppression, abuse of protected individuals, more than just Michael. What about Haley Rogers ??!!
I got goosebumps when I read this today Angel
I am so glad that these people are finally beginning to be held accountable for their actions. The fact that THE main person and body in charge of certifying addition and mental health workers, which certification includes ethics and boundaries training held by Eric Martin --OF ALL PEOPLE--is despicable. These things have been going on foe years with Eric Martin and Tony Vezina and finally we are seeing these stories brought to life.
I have more information about these two that I would love to come forward with.
The truth always comes out and shall set you free.
UPDATE? Yesterday, OHA fired Leann Johnson, head of the Equity and Diversity Division. That division ceded certification authority to MHACBO after OHA and Rep. Nosse learned of the allegations against Martin. The firing comes 2 weeks after my article broke that news. Anyone with info about the firing, please lemme know. https://www.wweek.com/news/state/2024/06/21/oregon-health-authority-fires-longtime-head-of-equity-and-inclusion/
it would appear that the only way the present administration in Oregon is able to make the vast tax revenues and federal largess disappear is by skimming the substantial cream off the top. it is certainly not getting to those for whom it was intended. keep trying, Mr. Eager, sooner or later people will have to listen.
Endemic corruption seems to be a fertile field with Oregon government
Corruption is the State of Oregon's value proposition, it's just that most voters don't know they're on the losing end of it, yet.
Yes coming from Louisiana my wife, working for/running in house counsel on a very connected attorney, was/is dumbfounded at the assumption of the average Oregonian that everything government wise is on the up and up. It took almost no time for her to notice things were not necessarily on the up and up
I left Oregon long ago. Sadly, it was ever thus.
Step-by-Step Guide to Prompt Legal Action by the Oregon Attorney General's Office
1. Collect Evidence:
Documentation: Gather all relevant documents, including financial records, emails, internal reports, and witness statements that detail the corruption and misuse of funds by Tony Vezina, Eric Martin, and others.
Interviews: Record testimonies from affected individuals and employees who can provide firsthand accounts of the mismanagement and unethical practices.
2. Submit a Formal Complaint:
Prepare the Complaint: Draft a detailed complaint letter outlining the allegations, supported by the collected evidence. Include specific incidents, dates, and the impact of the alleged misconduct.
Submission: Submit the complaint to the Oregon Attorney General’s office through their online complaint form or by mail. Ensure that you keep copies of all submitted documents.
Sample Complaint Letter:
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum
Oregon Department of Justice
1162 Court St. NE
Salem, OR 97301-4096
Dear Attorney General Rosenblum,
I am writing to request an investigation into the alleged corruption involving .... ......, .... ......, and others within Oregon’s addiction recovery sector. These individuals are accused of mismanaging state funds, exploiting vulnerable populations, and perpetuating systemic racial inequities.
Enclosed are documents and testimonies supporting these claims. I urge your office to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate legal action.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. Engage the Media:
Press Release: Draft and distribute a press release to local media outlets detailing the allegations and the submission of your complaint.
Interviews: Arrange interviews with journalists to discuss the issue and highlight the need for accountability.
Social Media: Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to share information and garner public support. Tag relevant parties and use hashtags to increase visibility.
4. Mobilize Community Support:
Petitions: Start an online petition on platforms like Change.org to gather signatures supporting the call for an investigation. Share the petition widely.
Community Meetings: Organize meetings and forums to inform the community, discuss the issue, and plan collective actions.
Coalitions: Form coalitions with advocacy groups, community organizations, and other stakeholders to amplify your efforts.
5. Contact Elected Officials:
Legislative Support: Reach out to state legislators, city council members, and other elected officials to inform them of the situation and request their support in pressuring the Attorney General’s office to act.
Briefings: Provide these officials with briefings and copies of your complaint and evidence.
6. Leverage Social Media:
Campaigns: Launch social media campaigns to raise awareness. Use hashtags, create informative posts, and engage with followers to spread the message.
Direct Appeals: Make direct appeals to the Attorney General’s office through social media platforms. Tag relevant accounts and use popular hashtags to increase reach.
7. Monitor and Follow Up:
Regular Updates: Stay in contact with the Attorney General’s office for updates on the status of your complaint.
Public Pressure: Maintain public pressure through media, social media, and community actions to ensure the issue remains a priority.
By following these steps, individuals and community groups can effectively advocate for an investigation and legal action against the corruption in Oregon's addiction recovery sector.
DOJ was aware of Razavi's allegations against Martin, and did some kind of "investigation" into it. A big part of why Oregon is such a banana (slug) republic is AG Rosenblum is entirely disinterested in pursuing corruption charges against her fellow Democrats, and Dems control everything in Oregon.
We experienced the same from AG Ellen Rosenblum and even have claims with her DOJ Crime Victims Comp fund acknowledging we are victims of a compensable crime reported by The Children's Center. I even wrote her a letter with all our abuse reports and courts orders served against the perp for over 6 years and had her staff sign for it bc she has ignored all our reports for the past 10 years and we had Immediate Danger Orders and the guy's a teacher still around children!
with due respect, complaining to the corrupt, while sometimes cathartic, is a waste of time, and only serves to augment their defenses. until the miscreants are laid bare in their morass for all to see, is futile.
Perhaps. But these are the systems we currently have, and while we may all know the truth, justice is never served by merely knowing. True justice requires action, exposure, and accountability.
amen
Public pressure doesn't work. Writing Governor Tina Kotek doesn't work. Calling other legislature constituent offices and writing emails has not worked. Going to others in the recovery community has not worked. They are so busy trying to protect their jobs and their families that they are terrified of speaking out and they suffer the abuse and then they become the abusers within the system....it's sick. Perpetually SICK.
Yep.
During my tenure at Oregon Recovers, which lasted for a year, I observed numerous unethical practices. My departure from the organization was marked by a series of perceived injustices, including a particularly unjust incident involving a co-worker. The organization fostered a "cool kids club" culture from which I was excluded. When I resigned, I submitted a detailed letter to the board outlining the lack of trauma awareness, as well as instances of racism and sexism I had witnessed. Unfortunately, I received no response, except from one individual who expressed regret for my experiences.
Following my time at Oregon Recovers, I worked for the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) for another year. My experience at OHA revealed deep-seated issues of racism, sexism, homophobia, and ableism within the organization, which I believe are rooted in a structure of white supremacy. During a leadership meeting, Steve Allen openly encouraged voting for Betsie Johnson, which I recognized as a policy violation. Despite reporting this to my supervisor, no accountability was taken. I believe my supervisor had a duty to report the incident, but she did not.
OHA, as highlighted by James Schroeder, is a highly toxic work environment. I perceive that I was subjected to retaliation when I was removed from an event related to a project I had led for six months, without any explanation, by Ebony Sloan Clarke. Currently, my claim is being investigated by the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI).
I understand your frustration and the challenges you're facing. It's disheartening to see the system working so slowly, especially when it feels like they're trying to bury the issues rather than address them. Your determination to hold them accountable is admirable and crucial. I completely agree that following through is the only way to ensure accountability.
Given the complexities of my situation, I must tread carefully to avoid jeopardizing my case as well. I know so much that I can’t divulge here. Some things I shared on social media led to retaliation from community members. It's deeply troubling what is happening, and it disgusts me that they continue to get away with it due to the stigma and discrimination against people in recovery, especially women, queer, and neurodivergent individuals. Despite their claims of diversity, equity, and inclusion, they lack a true understanding of what genuine liberation means.
Tony Venzina once told me at a dinner that I was wrong about AA being sexist, dismissed my perspective entirely. I understand that it can be difficult to see certain issues when you're in a position of privilege, like being a white man. The mural of Bill Wilson at one of their recovery centers struck me as quite ironic. I believe Tony genuinely sees himself as a significant figure in the recovery community. While his personal recovery journey is undoubtedly valuable, the monopolistic nature of his leadership in the Oregon Recovery community often seems to contradict the very principles and practices of recovery.
Liberatory practices in the context of recovery and true inclusion involve creating environments where all individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered. These practices prioritize trauma-informed care, equity and accessibility, empowerment and autonomy, community and connection, cultural competence, holistic support, accountability and transparency, inclusive leadership, and advocacy and activism. These principles and practices of recovery aim to create a supportive, effective, and just environment for all individuals. We are far from this in Oregon.
From the beginning, I had reservations about Tony. During our Zoom call, he appeared in a wife beater, which felt unprofessional and made me uncomfortable. But, sometimes, first impressions do matter. I’ve heard numerous disturbing stories about sexual harassment within the organization. Tony himself mentioned that his biggest HR challenges were related to sexual harassment, and I’ve heard that many non-disclosure agreements were signed, which raises legal and ethical concerns.
Although this information is second-hand, it’s troubling that Tony denies accountability for the culture he has fostered. True leadership involves taking responsibility and addressing issues transparently, not sweeping them under the rug. Over the last five years, there has been little improvement under his leadership, which feels like the definition of insanity. If I were in his position, I would promote a more diversified, inclusive, and co-created leadership approach. Unfortunately, it seems his mentors share the same narrow perspective. I once commented on his Facebook page, expressing my concern that promoting a hustle culture was insensitive, especially considering his position of power. His defensive response made it clear that he didn't see me as an equal.
I envision a future where leadership in recovery communities is genuinely shared and inclusive, reflecting the true diversity and collaborative spirit that recovery should embody. It's disheartening to see how the influence of money has distorted priorities, leading to decisions that often compromise integrity and inclusivity. Money has a way of skewing values and intentions, causing people to make choices that deviate from the core principles of genuine recovery.
I can relate to the struggle of wanting to push for change while being cautious not to jeopardize your case. It's a delicate balance. It’s also important to protect yourself from retaliation and to find the right support system, including an attorney who understands and supports your cause.
Your detailed documentation is a powerful tool, and I hope that it will eventually catch the attention of the right people. Stay strong and know that your efforts are not in vain. Change is often slow and arduous, but with persistence, it is possible. I’m here to support you in any way I can. Let's continue to push for the change we want to see.
Thanks for posting the link to the messages. It doesn’t hurt to use lewd messages to get complacent Oregonians interested in where their tax dollars go. Most Oregonians have never heard of MHACBO or MAAPPS. We have government by acronym in this state. The amounts of money are astounding. And not much to show for it. Our mainstream media are more interested in the latest drug addict who died in jail.
I’m currently working on an update on Measure 110. Among the acronyms involved: IMPACTS. It stands for Improving People’s Access to Community-based Treatment, Supports and Services (IMPACTS). It's a grant program run by the Community Justice Commission (Mike Schmidt’s old job before he got elected Multnomah County DA.)
IMPACTS has been around five years. Where’s the impact?
LOL. Look forward to your M110 piece. I've noted HJRA's social media suggests they're concerned about funding getting yanked. It was logical strategically to get rid of decrim first, but the M110 funding mechanism is like lighting taxpayer cash on fire.
The outsourcing of government responsibilities to “nonprofits” has created a shadow government which has very limited accountability, transparency or performance requirements. Portland seems to be ground zero for this behavior which essentially is a large payola scheme (politicians hand out millions, the non profits get them votes). It’s time for a moratorium on all taxpayer funded nonprofits until audits, salary limitations, transparency and performance requirements are in place.
Bravo for peeling the ugly truth off of what has passed for years in Oregon as "networking."
Called by anu other name this is still corruption and ultimately theft but with Ellen Rosenblum and her stock of Brown and now Kotek-appointed judges, the only hope is for an aggressive federal prosecution.
I think you hit a sore spot, Jeff. don't stop digging. :o)
If you want to see an egregious example of taxpayer abuse by OHA…look nor further then the grant money they sent to a hate group by the name of SNAC BLOC.
https://www.kgw.com/video/news/local/the-story/what-is-snack-bloc-and-why-did-they-get-taxpayer-money/283-e4714e94-f8f5-45ba-a8d3-2a3a24633d19
Sick
I read there is mention of a minor in that email thread and we have been busting many child predators in Oregon lately! We are also working with Veterans for Child Rescue bc we have reported MANY IN OREGON THE PAST 10 YEARS AND MANY WHO REMAINED SILENT! https://rumble.com/PVP