Oregon mental health advisory board includes member who identifies as terrapin species

JD Holt: A Unique Voice on Oregon’s Mental Health Council

JD Holt, a member of the Oregon Health Authority’s (OHA) Consumer Advisory Council (OCAC), has gained attention for their unique approach to gender identity. Holt, who also goes by "JD Terrapin" on Facebook, identifies as "turtlegender" and uses the pronouns "they, them, and turtle." This identity is part of a growing list of non-binary gender identities, where one feels a gendered connection to turtles, as described by Gender Wiki. Holt’s presence on the council adds a distinctive perspective to the discussion of mental health services in Oregon.

The Role and Structure of the OCAC

The OCAC is a state-appointed panel established by administrative statute to advise the OHA Director, Dr. Sejal Hathi, on mental health policies and practices. Comprising about two dozen "consumers," the council investigates, evaluates, and recommends improvements to Oregon’s behavioral health resources. Members like Holt are appointed by Director Hathi, who was appointed by Governor Tina Kotek. The council operates under a structured framework, with members serving two-year terms and the ability to be re-elected once. Their role is crucial in shaping the state’s mental health service policies, with annual working plans and the authority to form committees for specific investigations.

The Concept of Turtlegender and Its Relevance

Holt’s gender identity, "turtlegender," reflects a broader trend in non-binary and xenogender identities, where individuals find connection and expression through non-human elements. This identity is described as feeling a gendered link to turtles, with one’s gender either replaced by or best expressed through turtles. Such identities highlight the diversity of human experience and the importance of inclusive language and recognition. Holt’s self-identification brings visibility to these less commonly understood genders, illustrating the spectrum of human identity.

OHA’s Stance on Diversity and Inclusion

In response to inquiries, the OHA emphasized the value they place on the diverse perspectives of council members. Amber Shoebridge, an OHA spokesperson, highlighted that each member "are highly valued" for their lived experiences and contributions to the state’s mental health discussions. The appointment process involves existing council members, a seven-member committee, and final decisions by Director Hathi, ensuring a broad representation of consumer-run organizations and advocacy groups. This structured approach aims to capture a wide array of experiences and perspectives.

Responsibilities and Budget of the OCAC

The OCAC’s responsibilities are multifaceted, including investigating, evaluating, and recommending mental health resources. They develop annual plans with specific goals and have the authority to establish committees for detailed investigations. The OHA’s budget for the 2023-2025 biennium was $35.8 billion, though the exact allocation for the OCAC was not specified. This significant budget underscores the state’s commitment to mental health, while the council’s role ensures that these resources are shaped by diverse consumer voices.

Controversy and Advocacy Beyond the Council

Holt’s advocacy extends beyond the OCAC, as their Facebook posts reveal support for anarchist causes and encouragement to obstruct immigration enforcement. This has drawn attention from media outlets like Fox News, which reviewed Holt’s public posts and noted their calls to disrupt ICE checkpoints. Despite these controversial views, Holt’s role on the council remains a subject of interest, raising questions about the intersection of personal activism and advisory roles in government health bodies. As of press time, Holt, Hathi, and Kotek have not provided responses to these inquiries.