JD Holt, who is a member of Oregon’s Health Authority Consumer Advisory Council, identifies as a “turtle” and uses the pronouns “they, them, and turtle.” The council advises the OHA Director on mental health services in Oregon. Holt’s gender identity is described as “turtlegender” by Gender Wiki. The council’s members, who have lived experiences with behavioral health challenges, are highly valued by the OHA.
The OCAC investigates, evaluates, and recommends the state’s behavioral health resources, and has the authority to establish committees to focus on specific areas of interest. The council’s budget is not disclosed, but the OHA’s total budget for 2023-2025 was $35.8 billion. Each council member serves a two-year term and can be reelected once.
Holt’s public Facebook posts show support for “anarchist” causes and advocating for obstructing immigration enforcement actions. In a post, Holt encouraged people to make federal immigration authorities’ jobs difficult and uncomfortable.
Members are appointed to the OCAC through a joint effort between existing members, a committee appointed by the council, and the OHA Director. The council’s rules were updated recently, and legislators have worked to strengthen its role in shaping mental health service policies. Holt, Hathi, and Kotek did not respond to requests for comment.
The OCAC plays a critical role in advising on mental health services in Oregon, and Holt’s unique perspective as a “turtle” adds diversity to the council’s membership.
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