Environmental Justice & Leadership 2025 Graduation Group 2
On November 8, 2025, Adelante Mujeres gathered to celebrate the graduation of Group 2 from the Environmental Justice and Leadership Program. Community leaders, partners, families, and friends came together to honor eight weeks of dedication, learning, and deep commitment to caring for the Earth.
Before they were presented certificates, graduates presented the environmental projects they developed during the program. These projects reflected their creativity, leadership, and passion, demonstrating how meaningful change begins within local communities. Each project, lesson, and shared experience strengthened our collective commitment to the planet and to future generations. Adelante Mujeres celebrates the efforts of all who participated and continues to uplift one of the organization’s core values: To love and respect nature. Gabriela Ordóñez, Director of Leadership and Advocacy, affirmed the importance of the graduates’ role as environmental leaders and agents of change by saying, “Congratulations on your dedication, growth, and commitment to creating more sustainable and conscious communities.”
At the event, the Environmental Justice Committee 2023–2025 was honored for their vital contributions to the group. This committee, made up of five community members who completed the first Environmental Justice training in 2023, played a key role in reviewing the curriculum for this cohort. Their insights ensured the program addressed the most relevant and urgent environmental issues. Special recognition was given to Claudia, Juan, Hilda, Martha, and Mauricio for their more than two years of commitment to education, community outreach, and collaboration, including their work on the Climate Change Exhibit with OMSI.
In a touching moment, Mauricio, a member of the Environmental Justice Committee, addressed the group. He encouraged graduates and their families to take action through the everyday practices of reducing, reusing, recycling, and repurposing. His message was a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with simple, intentional choices.
This joyful celebration included a delicious traditional lunch of tamales and champurrado prepared by Araceli from La Popular Maka Tlan and a surprise guest performance by Ballet FolkORÓ from the Edad de Oro Cultural Center. This traditional Mexican dance group for older adults brought joy, color, and emotion through traditional folkloric dances, celebrating culture, movement, and community. The energy of the performance was one of the most uplifting moments of the celebration.
The success of the Environmental Justice and Leadership Program would not be possible without the dedication of graduates, families, presenters, community partners, the Leadership and Advocacy Department, METRO, and the many individuals who work daily toward a healthier and more equitable environment. We extend our sincere thanks to our partners: OJTA, Recology, Centro Cultural, Adelante Mujeres Regenerative Agriculture Program, Growing Gardens, Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District, and Washington County.
Together, we are growing communities that are conscious, resilient, and rooted in care for the Earth.