Oregon Health Authority Panel Member Identifies as ‘Turtle,’ Uses Turtle Pronouns

An appointee to the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) consumer Advisory Council (OCAC) identifies as a “turtle” and uses turtle pronouns, sparking a statewide conversation.JD Holt, a member of the OCAC, advises the OHA director on mental health best practices and policies. The OCAC, established by administrative statute, is appointed by OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi, who was appointed by Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek. Holt’s identity and the council’s responsibilities have ignited discussion regarding Oregon’s approach to mental health services.

JD holt, also known as “JD Terrapin” on Facebook, is one of approximately two dozen “consumers” serving on the OCAC. The council’s primary function is to advise Dr. Hathi on the provision of mental health services throughout Oregon, including conducting investigations and reviews of existing practices.

Holt’s Pronoun Usage and ‘turtlegender’

During a virtual OCAC meeting on Dec. 20, Holt introduced themself, stating, Hello everybody, it’s JD. I use they, them and turtle for my pronouns. I’m in the Springfield-Eugene area and I get to be part of the council. The use of “turtle” as a pronoun has drawn attention and prompted questions about the understanding and acceptance of diverse gender identities within the OHA.

The term “turtlegender,” sometimes referred to as “tortoisegender,” is defined by Gender Wiki as a xenogender identity in which one feels a gendered connection to turtles. The website further explains, One may feel their gender is replaced by a ‘turtle,’ or their gender is best described with the use of turtles.

Notably, during a separate meeting on dec.17, another OHA member introduced themself as “Luke A Shooting Star,” highlighting the diverse forms of self-identification within the agency.

OHA’s Response and council’s Role

In a statement to Fox News Digital, the OHA emphasized the value of diverse perspectives within the Consumer Advisory Council. OHA spokesperson Amber Shoebridge stated that every member and the perspectives they bring are highly valued. Shoebridge further explained,In following Oregon statute,every member of the Oregon Consumer Advisory Council is someone with lived experience,bring [sic] the voice and experiences of people across the state that have experienced behavioral health challenges.

Shoebridge clarified that the appointment process involves a collaborative effort between existing council members, a seven-member committee appointed by the council, and the OHA director, who ultimately makes the final decision. Those selected are intended to represent self-reliant, consumer-run organizations, consumer-run advocacy organizations and consumer-operated advisory councils that are active or headquartered in this state.

The advisory council’s duties include the ability to investigate, evaluate and recommend improvements to the state’s behavioral health resources. The OCAC develops an annual working plan with recommendations and goals and has the authority to establish committees to investigate specific areas of interest related to Behavioral Health services. The council’s governing rules were updated as recently as last year, and state legislators have previously taken steps to strengthen its role in shaping decisions on mental health service policies.

While the OHA did not promptly respond to inquiries regarding the OCAC’s specific budget allocation, the agency’s overall budget for the 2023-2025 biennium is $35.8 billion, according to its website.

each council member serves a two-year term and is eligible for reelection onc, as stipulated by the administrative statute establishing the panel.

Holt’s Social Media Activity

A review of Holt’s public Facebook posts revealed promotion of “anarchist” causes and encouragement of actions to obstruct immigration enforcement. In a Jan.29 Facebook post, Holt wrote, WHAT TO DO AT AN ICE CHECKPOINT, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE WHITE and/or FEEL THE NEED TO JAM UP THE WORKS. The post encouraged individuals to disrupt federal immigration authorities and make their jobs as tough and uncomfortable as possible.

As of press time, neither Holt, Dr.Hathi, nor Gov. Kotek had responded to requests for comment.

Conclusion

The appointment of JD Holt,who identifies as a “turtle” and uses turtle pronouns,to the Oregon health authority’s Consumer Advisory council highlights the evolving landscape of identity and depiction in public service. As the OCAC plays a crucial role in shaping mental health policies and practices in Oregon, Holt’s unique viewpoint and background will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing dialog surrounding behavioral health services in the state. The OHA’s commitment to valuing diverse perspectives will be tested as the council navigates complex issues and strives to improve the lives of Oregonians facing mental health challenges.

Pronoun Revolution: Exploring Gender Identity and Public Service in oregon’s Mental Health System

Is the inclusion of an individual identifying as a “turtle” on a state advisory board a sign of evolving societal norms or a potential distraction from crucial mental health policy discussions?

Interviewer: Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in gender studies and public policy, welcome. The recent appointment of JD Holt, who identifies as a “turtle” and uses “turtle” pronouns, to Oregon’s Health Authority Consumer Advisory Council has sparked meaningful debate. Can you shed light on the significance of this event?

Dr. Sharma: Absolutely. The appointment of JD Holt to the Oregon Health Authority’s Consumer Advisory Council, using “turtle” pronouns, represents a captivating intersection of evolving gender identity expressions and the increasingly diverse composition of public service. It’s crucial to understand that this isn’t simply about pronouns; it’s about the broader societal shift towards recognizing and embracing a wider spectrum of gender identities and expressions—what we often term gender inclusivity. This case highlights the ongoing evolution of societal norms concerning gender affirmation and self-identification within the framework of public service.

Understanding Xenogenders and the Spectrum of Gender Identity

Interviewer: For many readers, the term “turtlegender” might be unfamiliar. Can you explain what xenogenders are, and how they fit within the broader context of gender identity?

Dr. Sharma: xenogenders are a subset of non-binary gender identities where an individual’s gender identity is connected to something outside of the customary gender binary—animals,objects,concepts,or other experiences.Turtlegender, in this case, signifies a connection and resonance felt by the individual to turtles. Its important to note that xenogenders, like all gender identities, are deeply personal and subjective. they are valid expressions of self,reflecting the wide array of ways in which individuals experience and understand their own gender. Within the broader context,understanding terms like “turtlegender” necessitates acknowledging the expansive nature of gender beyond the binary model of male and female. There is a continuous evolution in the way we understand and categorize gender identities,with new terms and concepts emerging and being developed regularly.

The Role of Pronouns in Identity and Respectful Communication

Interviewer: The use of non-conventional pronouns, like “turtle,” adds another layer to this discussion. How crucial are pronouns in affirming someone’s gender identity, and how can society improve its approach to understanding and using them?

Dr. Sharma:

Pronoun revolution: Understanding “Turtlegender” and its Impact on Oregon’s Mental Health Policy

Is the increasing acceptance of diverse gender identities in public service a sign of progress, or does it risk overshadowing critical policy discussions?

interviewer: Senior Editor, World Today News

Expert: Dr. Anya Sharma, Leading Expert in Gender Studies and Public Policy

Interviewer: Dr. Sharma, welcome. The recent appointment of JD Holt, who identifies as a “turtle” and uses “turtle” pronouns, to Oregon’s Health Authority Consumer Advisory Council (OCAC) has sparked considerable debate. what’s the meaning of this event?

Dr. Sharma: The appointment of JD Holt to the OCAC, using “turtle” pronouns, marks a meaningful intersection of evolving gender identity expressions and the increasingly diverse landscape of public service. This isn’t just about pronouns; it’s about a broader societal shift towards inclusivity and the recognition of a wide spectrum of gender identities and expressions.This case showcases the ongoing evolution of societal norms surrounding gender affirmation and self-identification within public service roles. The inclusion of diverse perspectives is crucial for effective policy-making, and this appointment reflects a potential move toward more representative governance.

Understanding Xenogenders and the Spectrum of Gender Identity

Interviewer: Many readers are unfamiliar with the term “turtlegender.” Can you explain xenogenders and how they fit into the larger context of gender identity?

Dr. Sharma: Xenogenders are a subset of non-binary gender identities where a person’s gender identity connects to something outside the typical gender binary – animals, objects, concepts, or other experiences. Turtlegender,in this case,signifies a personal connection and resonance with turtles. Its vital to remember that xenogenders, like all gender identities, are profoundly personal and subjective. They’re valid expressions of self, reflecting the diverse ways individuals understand their gender. Understanding terms like “turtlegender” requires acknowledging the expansive nature of gender beyond the simple male/female dichotomy. Our understanding of and approach to categorizing gender identities is constantly evolving,with new terms and concepts appearing regularly. This highlights the fluidity and complexity inherent in human identity.

The Role of Pronouns in Identity and Respectful Communication

Interviewer: The use of unconventional pronouns, like “turtle,” adds another layer. How important are pronouns in affirming someone’s gender identity, and how can society improve its understanding and usage of them?

Dr. sharma: Pronouns are basic to affirming a person’s gender identity and demonstrating respect. Using someone’s chosen pronouns validates their self-perception and creates a safe and inclusive surroundings. Misgendering, even unintentionally, can be invalidating and hurtful. improving societal understanding requires:

Education and Awareness: openly discussing gender identity and its diverse expressions in schools, workplaces, and communities.

Active Listening: Paying close attention to how individuals introduce themselves or state their pronouns.

Practice and Self-Reflection: Consciously using correct pronouns and seeking clarification when unsure.

Empathy and Respect: Recognizing that using correct pronouns is a fundamental element of showing respect.

Interviewer: The article also mentions JD Holt’s social media activity advocating for anarchist causes and actions to obstruct immigration enforcement. How does this intersect with the discussion around their gender identity?

Dr. Sharma: It’s crucial to separate an individual’s political beliefs and activism from their gender identity. One does not negate or invalidate the other. While JD Holt’s political views may be controversial to some, their gender identity remains a separate and valid aspect of their self-expression. It’s important to foster a discourse that acknowledges the complexity of individuals and avoids conflating diffrent facets of their lives.

Interviewer: What are your final thoughts?

Dr. Sharma: The appointment of JD Holt presents an possibility to discuss evolving gender identity expressions and their impact on public policy. While there are complexities to navigate, this case underscores the growing need for greater acceptance, understanding, and respect for diverse gender identities in all areas of society. We must strive to create inclusive spaces where individuals can fully express their identities without fear of judgment or discrimination. This debate highlights a crucial shift in our approach to gender and inclusion, affecting not just public service but the fabric of society as a whole.

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