From The Bus Project to NextUp Oregon

Last week as I was scrolling down Instagram and came across a striking advertisement that was linking me to resources about how to vote in Oregon and I clicked on it. It was from NextUp, which is an organization in Oregon that focuses on “amplifying the voices and leadership of diverse young people to achieve a more just and equitable Oregon.” Formally known as the Bus Project, their title is not the only thing that has changed. After addressing some of their biases and realigning their values to not uplift white supremacy they have created an organization that works to help all Oregonians. UpNext works to engage the next generation of Oregon’s leaders to work towards dismantling oppressive structures by actively working with marginalized individuals and/or groups. A big part of their work now in 2020 is reaching underrepresented communities and educating them about their options for voting in this upcoming. 

Accomplishments of NextUp Oregon

They have always been a loud and persistent voice on the topic of voter’s rights in Oregon. NextUp has helped pass initiatives like online voter registration in 2008 to paid postage for voting in 2019. They are a great resource to go to if you want state-specific information on anything from registration to send in your ballot. Their website includes a resource gallery that explains some of the important elected positions in Portland in beyond and how their power my affect you as an individual. Having such an ambitious and active organization pushing for equity in Oregon’s election and beyond is so valuable. You can visit their website here for more information: https://nextuporegon.org/