Lew Frederick

Lew Frederick is an American politician affiliated with the Democratic Party, currently serving as a member of the Oregon State Senate, representing District 22. He has a diverse background in education, media, and public service, and he has been active in Oregon politics since his election to the state legislature.

Early life and career

Lew Frederick was born in December 1951 in Pullman, Washington. He spent his formative years in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Atlanta, Georgia. Frederick is the son of Dr. Lafayette Frederick, a botanist and Professor Emeritus at Howard University, and his mother, Antoinette Reed Frederick. In 1974, he relocated to northeast Portland, Oregon, where he has since established his residence.

Frederick's professional journey began in education, where he worked as a teacher at the Metropolitan Learning Center for two years. Following his teaching career, he transitioned into journalism, serving as a radio and television reporter for KGW for seventeen years. His experience in media contributed to his understanding of public communication and information dissemination. After his tenure in journalism, Frederick took on the role of Director of Public Information at Portland Public Schools, where he worked for thirteen years, further solidifying his commitment to education and community engagement.

In addition to his work in education and media, Frederick served as Assistant to the President at Portland Community College. His involvement in educational institutions extended to the State Board of Education, where he contributed to policy discussions and educational governance. His contributions to education and community service were recognized in October 2013 when he received the Outstanding Alumni Award from Earlham College, highlighting his impact and commitment to public service.

Legislative service

Frederick's political career began when he was sworn into the Oregon House of Representatives in October 2009. During his time in the House, he was appointed to several committees, including the House Interim Human Services Committee and the House Interim Sustainability & Economic Development Committee. His involvement in these committees allowed him to engage with critical issues affecting Oregonians, particularly in the areas of human services and sustainable development.

By 2010, Frederick was noted as Oregon's highest-ranking black leader and the only black man serving in the Oregon Legislature at that time. His leadership and representation in the legislature were significant, as they highlighted the importance of diversity in political representation. During his campaign for District 43, he received endorsements from notable figures and organizations, including Commissioner Amanda Fritz and The Skanner, which underscored his community support.

Frederick's legislative responsibilities expanded as he moved into leadership roles within the Oregon House. He served on the House Joint Committee on Legislative Audits, Information Management and Technology, and later took on key assignments during the 2013 Regular Session. His roles included Vice-Chair of the Land Use Committee and participation in the Ways and Means Committee, as well as the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education. These positions allowed him to influence budgetary decisions and policy development in crucial areas affecting education and land use in Oregon.

In 2019, Frederick transitioned to the Oregon State Senate, where he continues to serve the constituents of District 22. His ongoing legislative work reflects his commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of his district and the state as a whole.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Oregon State Senate, Lew Frederick has focused on a range of policy issues that reflect his commitment to social justice, education, and community development. His legislative priorities include advocating for reparations for the descendants of enslaved individuals. In January 2021, he proposed Oregon State Bill 619, which aimed to direct the Oregon Department of Revenue to provide annual annuities to individuals who could demonstrate heritage in slavery. This proposal was notable for its intention to address historical injustices and provide financial support to affected individuals.

Frederick's policy initiatives often center around equity and inclusion, reflecting his understanding of the diverse needs of his constituents. His background in education informs his advocacy for educational policies that promote access and equity for all students in Oregon. He has also been involved in discussions surrounding land use and sustainable development, recognizing the importance of these issues in the context of urban planning and community growth.

In addition to his legislative duties, Frederick maintains a research and strategy affiliation with The Rand Reed Group, an applied anthropological consultancy based in California and Washington, D.C. This affiliation allows him to leverage his expertise in anthropology and public policy to inform his legislative work and community engagement efforts.

Frederick's Chief of Staff is Nathan Soltz, who also serves as the Chair of the Democratic Party of Oregon. This leadership structure reflects Frederick's commitment to collaboration and effective governance within his office and the broader political landscape.

As a current member of the Oregon State Senate, Lew Frederick continues to play a vital role in shaping policies that impact the lives of Oregonians, particularly those in his district. His diverse background and extensive experience in education, media, and public service contribute to his effectiveness as a legislator and advocate for his constituents.