Our Story
East Multnomah County residents have been historically disengaged and underrepresented in local elections. In the aftermath of the 2016 Presidential election there was a widespread sentiment among community members that there must be an organizing body to cultivate the power of the people in order to stand up for our values and our communities. For far too long, our community has been underrepresented in the halls of power.
East County Rising was created to provide community and electoral organizing opportunities for residents to partake in issue-based electoral and campaign work. Our goal is to transform east county. We are achieving that goal by educating and mobilizing voters, training progressive candidates, and working with elected officials to pass meaningful policy that improves east county. We’ve made some great strides in a short time since we launched July 28, 2018.
Eddy Morales, founder of East County Rising
Eddy is small business owner with 20 years of experience in community organizing.
As East County Rising’s founder, Eddy has dedicated himself to increasing civic engagement among underserved populations in East Multnomah County and supporting candidates and elected officials who advance equitable policies. Through his work, he hopes to make local democracy work for everyone and build a platform for rising leaders who can represent a great diversity of cultures and lived experiences.
Since 2003, Eddy has dedicated his career to finding concrete solutions to issues that affect our most vulnerable communities, including access to healthcare, immigration reform, housing equity, education, and ending gun violence.
As part of our slate of ten candidates we supported during the 2018 midterm election, Eddy was elected as a Gresham City Councilor after a 6 week grassroots campaign that ended in a recount, then victory.
Since taking office he has focused on transportation justice, institutional equity, revitalization of parks and recreation, and fixing Gresham's financial crisis. As a City Councilor, Eddy brings his experience, skills, determination, and compassion to tackle issues like housing, transportation, and economic and educational opportunity for all our residents.
From grassroots activism to board service for organizations like Planned Parenthood, Eddy has kept the needs of our communities close at heart.
Our Board
Amanda Squiemphen-Yazzie
Board Member
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John Vandermosten
Board Member
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Shirley Vandermosten
Board Member
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Layla Assem
Board Member
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Hugh Harris
Board Member
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Cayle Tern
Board Member
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