Diversity Policy

The purpose of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling is to promote the health of Oregonians by supporting efforts to minimize gambling related harm.

The Council recognizes that disordered gambling negatively impacts Oregonians regardless of their gender, race, ethnic origin, disability, age, nationality, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, beliefs, marital status, or social class.

In order for the Council to achieve its purpose, and realizing practical limitations to the size of an effective Board, the Council embraces the need to continually reach out to its community partners, community members, and policy makers to proactively ensure that: 1) advertising, or availability, of gambling opportunities are not targeted to vulnerable populations; and, 2) that effective prevention, including responsible gambling programs, and treatment services are readily available to all Oregonians.  This will be accomplished within the scope of the strategic plan.

The Council will work closely with its community partners, especially those who provide direct services to Oregonians, to ensure the voice and needs of diverse and potentially under-served populations is heard and included in all efforts to educate policy makers.     

Finally, the Council recognizes the need to embrace diversity and equality within its Board membership and any individuals it may employ.  Recruiting for new positions and vacancies will include special efforts to reach out to diverse populations for qualified individuals.  Selection of members or employees will be based on aptitude and ability.

Social Justice

Inequities affect the social determinants of health — the conditions which affect where people are born, grow, live and age. Rates of at-risk and problem gambling, as with many other public health issues, are higher among Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color, Latinx, and LGBTQIA+ populations.

We recognize our own need to do more to support Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC), Latinx and those identifying as LGBTQIA+ by supporting more efforts to address these communities.

We understand we lack BIPOC representation on our Board of Directors, and we are actively seeking qualified and passionate board members to better serve BIPOC populations.

We are committed to continuously listen, learn, and act.