Patricia Davis Gibson . Photo from Office of Mayor Charlie Hales
Patricia Davis Gibson, a member of the Comanche Nation, has been appointed as the first tribal liaison for the city of Portland, Oregon. In her new position, Davis Gibson will establish and strengthen relationships with Indian Country. She will develop policy and coordinate with tribes and tribal entities on behalf of Oregon's largest city. "Too often, the voice of the Native American is lost in misunderstanding," Davis Gibson said in a press release from Mayor Charlie Hales. "To be provided an opportunity to work with the city of Portland and the tribal public is inspiring to one who has dedicated her life to working in Indian Country." Davis Gibson is an attorney who has served as a judge for tribes in Oregon and Washington, according to her resume. She's also worked on Indian Child Welfare Act and juvenile justice issues. Native Americans represent about 1 percent of the population in Portland, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The Northwest part of the city has long been home to urban Indians and Tawna Sanchez, a member of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, is expected to represent the area in the Oregon Legislature after the November election. The Indian Health Service maintains a regional headquarters in Portland as does the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board is also based in the city.
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