BIOGRAPHY

Born during a directorship and raised in the aftermath of military occupation, Joanne learned from an early age that each individual has power to impact the community they live in.  As a child she grew up in rural Panama at her grandparents’ home where she saw from her elders resiliency, ingenuity, self determination, love for family, friends and community.  Later on during her teens she lived in the city of Panama where she graduated from the Colegio de la Salle. 

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At the turn of the century she left her home in search of freedom and safety to be the most authentic and fullest version of herself and since then she has advocated for underrepresented communities in a variety of ways.  Her children are beloved teachers, mentors and partners who have inspired her work within a variety of organizations and networks where she have led organizing efforts across Oregon to support Immigrants, LGBTQ2S+ and women’s rights.  Joanne learned to love poetry from her father and she continues to enjoy writing, daydreaming and envisioning possibilities.