Multnomah County, OR. – The Washington and Multnomah Boards of County Commissioners appointed Mari Watanabe as the State Representative for Oregon’s House District 34. The Oregon House Democrats celebrated Watanabe as “Oregon’s First Japanese American Woman Legislator”. Her appointment fills the vacancy left by former Representative Lisa Reynolds, who transitioned to the Oregon Senate in November 2024.
House District 34 encompasses the communities of Bethany, Oak Hills, Cedar Mill, and parts of Beaverton and Hillsboro. Watanabe’s extensive background includes over two decades in the Portland Metro area, where she served as the first executive director of the Japanese American Museum of Oregon and held leadership roles at the Portland Business Alliance and Partners in Diversity. Watanabe has expressed a commitment to “equity and inclusion” and focused on this area in her service on various boards and commissions, including the Portland Community College Board of Directors and the Oregon Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs.
Reflecting on her appointment, Watanabe stated, “My sleeves are already rolled up, they have been for decades.” She emphasized her dedication to public service and her readiness to contribute to the state’s legislative process.
The swearing-in ceremony took place on January 19, 2025, at the Portland Japanese Garden, intending to symbolize her deep connection to her heritage and the community. The event featured a performance by Portland Taiko and remarks from local leaders, speaking to Watanabe’s leadership and the significance of her appointment.
In a press release House Democrats focused on Watanabe’s journey as deeply influenced by her family’s resilience, particularly her parents’ experiences during World War II. This legacy has fueled her advocacy for civil rights and her commitment to serving all Oregonians. As she steps into her new role, Watanabe expressed pride and honor in breaking new ground in the state’s legislature.
Full meeting video:
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