Centering Community Voice in Advocacy

Joe-Silem B. Enlet serves as Consul General of the Federated States of Micronesia, based in Portland, Oregon.  He serves as President of the COFA Alliance National Network, an advocacy organization with chapters in Washington, Arizona, Texas, and Eastern Oregon.

Born and raised in Chuuk, Micronesia, Joe has lived in Portland for the past 12 years.  He has been actively involved in public policy and advocacy, both locally and nationally. He was appointed  to serve on the statewide taskforce addressing racial disparities in homeownership.  Oregon Governor Kate Brown appointed Joe as a member of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace Advisory Committee. In 2018, the City of Portland honored Joe as an "Emerging Leader" through the Emily Gottfried Human Rights Award.

In this episode, Joe shares lessons learned, opportunities and challenges in advocating for the Micronesian community. He also shares his journey of service through his faith and dedication to advancing social justice and human flourishing.