Kayse Jama

Kayse Jama is an American politician currently serving as a member of the Oregon State Senate, representing the 24th Senate District. A member of the Democratic Party, he has held this position since his appointment in 2021. Jama is notable for being the first Muslim and the first former refugee to serve in the Oregon State Legislature. His legislative work focuses on various social issues, including housing, labor, and economic development.

Early life and career

Kayse Jama was born in Somalia into a nomadic family. At the age of eight, he relocated to the capital city of Mogadishu, where he began his formal education. His educational journey was interrupted by the outbreak of the Somali civil war, which forced him to live as a refugee for several years. In 1998, Jama arrived in the United States, settling in San Diego, California, before moving to Portland, Oregon, shortly thereafter.

Upon arriving in Portland, Jama took on various roles to support himself and his community. He worked at the front desk of the Portland DoubleTree Hotel, where he interacted with a diverse clientele. His commitment to helping others led him to become a case manager at Lutheran Community Services Northwest, where he assisted newly arrived refugees in adapting to life in the United States. Jama pursued higher education and earned a bachelor's degree in sociology from Marylhurst University, which equipped him with the knowledge and skills to further advocate for social justice and community development.

Jama's early career was marked by a dedication to community organizing and leadership development. From 2005 to 2007, he participated in the New Voices Fellowship at the Western States Center, where he trained immigrant and refugee community leaders across five Western states: Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Utah, and Idaho. This experience laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in advocacy and public service.

Legislative service

In 2021, Jama was appointed to the Oregon State Senate to fill the vacancy left by Shemia Fagan, who was elected to serve as Oregon Secretary of State. Representing Senate District 24, which includes parts of East Portland and North Clackamas, Jama quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the legislature. His appointment marked a significant milestone in Oregon's political landscape, as he became the first Muslim and the first former refugee to serve in the state's legislative body.

As a member of the Oregon State Senate, Jama has taken on leadership roles, including serving as the chair of the Senate Committee on Housing and Development. He is also a member of the Senate Committee on Labor and Business, as well as the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Transportation and Economic Development. Through these committees, he has been involved in shaping policies that address critical issues affecting his constituents and the broader Oregon community.

In November 2024, Jama was elected Senate Majority Leader, further solidifying his influence within the Oregon State Senate. This leadership position allows him to play a key role in guiding legislative priorities and fostering collaboration among his colleagues.

Policy focus and district

Jama's legislative priorities reflect his commitment to social equity and community empowerment. He has been an advocate for various initiatives aimed at addressing systemic issues in housing, labor, and economic development. As chair of the Senate Committee on Housing and Development, he has focused on policies that promote affordable housing and address homelessness, recognizing the urgent need for solutions in these areas.

In addition to housing, Jama has been active in labor-related issues, advocating for workers' rights and fair labor practices. His involvement in the Senate Committee on Labor and Business underscores his dedication to improving conditions for workers, particularly those from immigrant and low-wage backgrounds.

Jama's work extends beyond housing and labor; he has also been involved in broader social justice initiatives. He played a significant role in community organizing efforts aimed at reducing the influence of money in politics, ending police profiling, reforming hate crime laws, and expanding access to drug treatment. His advocacy for the passage of Oregon ballot measure 110, which sought to decriminalize certain drugs, highlights his commitment to addressing public health issues and promoting equitable treatment for individuals struggling with substance use.

Throughout his career, Jama has been recognized for his contributions to the community and his advocacy work. He has received several awards, including the Skidmore Prize for outstanding young nonprofit professionals, the Oregon Immigrant Achievement Award, and the Portland Peace Prize, among others. These accolades reflect his dedication to uplifting marginalized communities and fostering social change.

In his personal life, Jama is married to Stephanie D. Stephens, who serves on the David Douglas School Board in Portland. They have twins, Sahan and Saharla, born in 2010. His family life is intertwined with his commitment to community service and advocacy, as he continues to work towards a more equitable and just society for all Oregonians.

As a member of the Oregon State Senate, Kayse Jama remains focused on addressing the needs of his constituents and advocating for policies that promote social equity, economic opportunity, and community empowerment. His unique background and experiences inform his approach to public service, making him a significant figure in Oregon's political landscape.