Chloe Mason is a dynamic single mom, sports and fitness model, actress, children’s book author, who recently ran for Portland City Council. Originally from Southern Illinois, Chloe’s journey brought her to Portland, where she has been a community leader and advocate for change. With a passion for justice and a strong commitment to giving back, Chloe is dedicated to making Portland a better place for all. Her work on various committees and advocacy for diversity reflect her drive to bring fresh energy and positive change to the city she calls home.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to Portland?
I’m originally from a rural area in Southern Illinois and grew up in the Bible Belt (imagine that!). My mom and I moved to Seattle in 2000, and I’ve called it home ever since. Young love brought me to Portland, and my work as a sports and fitness model kept me here.
How did you first become involved in politics? What drew you to campaign?
Even as a young girl, I wanted to play a role in making the world a better place. My mom remembers when I was five, I made a plan to solve world hunger by filling a plane with lobster and corn for third-world countries. As I grew up, I became more aware of the adversities I faced, and their magnitude—ranging from racism and extreme poverty to struggling with PTSD after a sexual assault at 20. Many of the challenges I went through could have been prevented if our system was set up for individuals to access support. Throughout my decade in Portland, I’ve worked tirelessly to stay engaged with the community, give back through numerous committees and boards, and not take a backseat while hoping for change. I wanted to be that catalyst for change. So when Portland moved to ranked-choice voting, I saw it as a prime opportunity to enter the race for City Council. The new charter system was designed to bring in more diverse candidates, but when I looked at those running in my district, it was still predominantly a white boys’ club. So, into the race I went. There’s power when a table has strong diversity, whether in age, gender, sexuality, race, or socio-economic status.
What are some of your proudest achievements or milestones?
Becoming a model is one of my proudest milestones. I’ll never forget when I was 20 years old, walking home in downtown Seattle and seeing a model on a Nike billboard. I told myself, “I’m going to get there.” I had wanted to model ever since second grade. I went to career day in a borrowed nightgown from my mom, slicked my hair back, and said I was Naomi Campbell. Mind you, at the time I saw the billboard and made the commitment to be on a Nike campaign, I was unhealthy, didn’t work out, and didn’t take care of myself in general. But once I set my mind to something, best believe I’ll run after it until I see it through. Four years later, my first booking was on a campaign with Nike. Since then, I’ve worked with brands like Lululemon, Adidas, Reebok, Hoka, Columbia, and Prana, among others. I’m really proud of myself for achieving that!
How has your identity influenced your work and contributions to the community?
My identity has shaped my work greatly. I take up space in the rooms I’m in. I often get asked why I mention I’m queer so often, and it’s because femme invisibility is real! Beyond my sexuality, my experiences and what I’ve been through allow me to connect with so many people from various backgrounds. I can relate to sexual assault survivors, those who have experienced poverty, and those who feel invisible or marginalized because of their skin color. The arts truly saved my life during some of its biggest blows, which is why I serve on the committee for PAMCUT (Portland Art Museum Center for Untold Tomorrow). I also serve on the committee for Soho House Portland, fostering a safe space for creatives to meet and collaborate. Additionally, I serve on Portland Police Bureau’s Equity Advisory Council, holding them accountable to their yearly equity plan.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your personal or professional life, and how did you overcome it?
At one point, I was a heavy drinker, and my excuse was that I was in my early 20s. Then the excuse became that I was just in my 20s, period. Then it was the weekend. It wasn’t until the pandemic that I took a long, hard look in the mirror and asked myself to dig deeper. I had been doing work with my therapist, but how honest was I with myself? How far was I allowing myself to go on my journey of self-discovery? We often don’t know the root of an issue until we peel back mask after mask. When I did that, I was left facing all the things I despised about myself. One by one, I began to embrace my shadow self and love every inch of my being that didn’t feel worthy of it. The journey to self is a difficult one, but it’s necessary.
What advice would you give to others facing similar challenges?
My heart goes out to everyone trying to love the parts of themselves that seem hard to love. My advice is to surround yourself with people who speak life into you, people who truly see and hear you. Speak life into yourself too! Look in the mirror and tell yourself the things you want to believe. “I am absolutely gorgeous.” “I’m easy to love.” “I am so deserving.” “I am necessary.” Even if you don’t believe it just yet, speak it—because you ARE all of those things.
How do you stay connected with the local LGBTQ+ community?
Queer dance parties, co-chairing Soho House Portland’s queer club, supporting local LGBTQ+ businesses, and attending every queer event I can find. This is why the Lesbian Culture Club is amazing. Instead of searching for your tribe in so many places, you can find like-minded individuals through their curated community events.
Are there any specific causes or organizations you are passionate about supporting?
I stand behind the work that the Cascade AIDS Project is doing in our city, from helping individuals secure housing and healthcare to providing emotional support. The work they’re doing and the impact they’re making is honorable and necessary. Raphael House of Portland is another organization doing incredible work. They provide wraparound support for domestic violence survivors, including shelter, help securing permanent housing, and everything they need to start their new chapter. I was blessed to serve four years on their board of directors and strategic planning committee.
Who or what inspires you the most in your personal and professional life?
My son is my biggest inspiration. He pushes me to be the best version of myself because being a present parent requires a level of patience I never knew I could reach. It means extending grace when my son makes mistakes. What I’ve learned through parenthood spills over into my professional life, where I try to create an atmosphere of acceptance and assurance that people are seen and heard. To be the leader I’m destined to be, I have to model that at home.
How do you see the community evolving, and what role do you hope to play in that evolution?
We’re in a new era, and I think it’s safe to say we’re all feeling it. Our community is really coming into its power, living unapologetically and out loud across all professions. I’m excited to show women of all ages and backgrounds that we not only deserve a seat at the table, but if we face pushback, we’ll bring our own damn seat. We’ve come so far, and we’re here, we’re queer, and we’re not going anywhere.
What are your future goals, both personally and professionally?
Personally, I want to travel and see more of the world. As parents, especially young parents, we often put our dreams on the back burner. Now that my son is getting older, it’s my time to chase those dreams. I’d also like to “settle down.” I have a wonderful partner now, and if she’s reading this—no pressure, babe! Although my life is full of many things, I find value in sharing it with someone. Professionally, I plan to hold office and ultimately aim to become a State Senator. As a high school dropout who once thought I’d never amount to much, I know I’ll get there with discipline, dedication, and the drive to make this chaotic place better for our children and theirs.
Can you share a fun fact or something people might not know about you?
Believe it or not, I was once a bikini athlete—and for those who don’t know what that is, it’s a bodybuilder. The only reason I did it was because someone close to me said it was something only for “real athletes” and told me not to try. So, I hired a coach and worked my ass off. I won first place in my first show. Tell me something I can’t do, and watch me do it!
What value does the Lesbian Culture Club provide for you and your community?
LCC provides a safe space to meet others in our community. At my first event, I felt such excitement. There were other women, either in my field or with similar interests, seeking to connect with others. Portland needs LCC.
Is there any question you wish we had asked you?
If you had asked me how I take my coffee, I’d say black.
Where can people connect with you or learn more about your work (whether through social media, a website, or other platforms you’re involved in).
For those who would like to connect via social media you can follow me on instagram at @chloealexandraxo or follow along my candidacy journey @chloemasonforpdx.
