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King County announced the launch of a community-led, independent commission dedicated to advancing human and civil rights. Applications are now open.
Today, King County Executive Shannon Braddock and the County Council announced the launch of the new Human and Civil Rights Commission. The commission will advise county government on implementing policies that advance human and civil rights.
The commission builds on decades of the county’s equity work, evolving from the 1976 King County Affirmative Action Committee, which then became the Civil Rights Commission in 1995. Applications to join the commission close on June 3.
“King County is committed to being a welcoming place where every person can thrive,” said Executive Braddock. “I’m excited to announce that we are now seeking applicants across the county to advise on policy development and drive meaningful change for equity and justice. It is critical to have a county commission that is dedicated to advocating for civil and human rights and holding institutions accountable for discrimination.”
The commission will have 11 members, initially appointed for staggered terms of one, two, or three years. It will include at least one member who has professional or lived experience with ADA compliance or disability equity work, experience within the immigrant and refugee community, or experience investigating or enforcing civil rights. Additionally, members must reside across all nine King County Council districts.
Key duties of the commission will include reviewing civil rights protections, engaging with impacted communities, advising and monitoring impacts to policies, supporting equity efforts at the county, and preparing annual reports. Non-government employee members will receive a $75 stipend for attending monthly commission meetings, as well as travel reimbursements.
“I’m proud to support the launch of King County’s Human and Civil Rights Commission — a critical step towards advancing racial equity and social justice for all people in our region,” said Council Chair Girmay Zahilay. “For decades, King County has been working to advance civil rights in government and its services. This commission marks the evolution of that work and advocacy from our community leaders and organizations. Together, we can build a King County where everyone — regardless of race, physical ability, gender identity, or immigration status — can thrive."
“Serving on King County’s new Human and Civil Rights Commission is an opportunity for residents to ensure that the policies, programs, and priorities of King County protect and advance individual human and civil liberties,” said Councilmember Rod Dembowski. “At a time when our national government is ignoring and eroding civil and human rights, we must stand up for everyone in our county, and work to ensure that all people receive the respect and protections afforded by the constitution and laws of our nation, state, and local governments. I invite you to apply for service on the commission. I look forward to hearing your voice as we work together to take a stand for our core values.”
“This is a pivotal moment for King County as we reaffirm our overdue commitment to protecting civil rights and fostering a more just and equitable community,” said Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda. “By reestablishing the Human and Civil Rights Commission, we are ensuring that King County will have a dedicated body focused on advancing equity, holding institutions accountable, empowering our most vulnerable communities, and protecting residents from discrimination. This commission will be instrumental in ensuring that all county policies are rooted in fairness, inclusion, and human dignity for all our residents.”
Commission members will be selected by the end of June and then confirmed by the County Council.
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