Meet Marisol, our government relations and legislative advocate

Marisol De La Torre is a first-generation Mexican American. Prior to joining Oregon Just Transition Alliance, she served in the Biden-Harris Administration, working at the White House Office of Public Engagement and the U.S. Department of Transportation under Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

Prior to her appointment, she led economic justice policy initiatives at Unite Oregon, a member of OJTA. Marisol’s favorite part of advocacy is engaging community members in the process and empowering them to take an active role in their local and state governments. Marisol graduated magna cum laude from Oregon State University's College of Liberal Arts with a B.A. in Sociology and minor in Business.

Describe your role at OJTA and why you do this kind of work.

I am OJTA’s government relations and legislative advocate. In this role, I work with our alliance members and legislators to advance legislation that strengthens the resilience of Oregon’s frontline communities. We are already witnessing the impacts of climate-fueled wildfires, extreme weather, and rising energy costs. However, it is our frontline communities that experience the most severe effects of climate change. I believe it is our collective responsibility to care for and support one another, especially as we unite to confront the urgent challenges of climate change.

What are some ways you live a Just Transition?

Outside of work, I support a Just Transition through intentional, everyday practices. I shop at local farmers' markets and volunteer with organizations that share my values. I also strive to resist consumerism and overconsumption, and I’ve been making an effort to remind myself that if an item wasn’t on my radar before it was marketed to me, it’s not something I truly need. When I clean out my closet, I give my clothes to friends or donate them to organizations that distribute them for free to community members in need.

Marisol, what makes you you?

I am a hopeful romantic. I love a good love story, especially anything by Jane Austen. My mom and I share a love for music, and we attend symphony concerts together whenever we can. In my free time, I enjoy visiting art galleries, hiking and baking pastries.

What makes Oregon your home? 

I was born and raised in Oregon, so naturally, I have a deep appreciation for this state. No matter where I travel, I always find myself missing the beautiful landscape of pine trees and marionberry-flavored anything. What truly makes Oregon home for me, though, is my family.