The King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission (KCIRC) is seeking dedicated individuals who bring a strong commitment to supporting immigrant and refugee communities to fill five open positions on the commission. The application is open until April 30, 2026. 

APPLY: King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission Online Application   

"Now more than ever, it’s critical that local leaders are hearing directly from immigrant and refugee communities about their needs and challenges so we can work together on solutions,” said Executive Girmay Zahilay. “The King County Immigrant and Refugee Commission plays an important role in shaping policy and outreach at the county. A representative from KCIRC also sits on my Welcoming County subcabinet to strengthen our local protections for immigrant and refugee neighbors, ensuring we are uplifting the voices of those most impacted.” 

Councilmember Jorge Barón immigrated to the United States at age thirteen and has been a long-time activist for immigrant rights. “As an elected official who is also an immigrant, I understand the importance of immigrant representation when developing policies at King County,” stated Barón. “What KCIRC offers is an opportunity for immigrants and refugees at the County to have a say in the issues and policies that affect their lives.”   

“It’s our duty as leaders and citizens to leverage community power to ensure all voices are heard,” said Councilmember Teresa Mosqueda. “From labor issues to increasing access to affordable housing and adequate healthcare, KCIRC is a space to advocate for the issues that disproportionately impact immigrants and refugees. This commission’s role in the County is vital in maintaining a government that understands how to serve its diverse constituents.”  

“These are unprecedented times with so many federal policies having an impact on local communities. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that local governments step in to support our local residents and mitigate the impact,” said Councilmember Claudia Balducci. “KCIRC is one way our immigrant and refugee communities can have a direct and pivotal role in shaping how King County collaborates with them to offer critically needed support.” 

Established in 2018 by Ordinance 18653, KCIRC acts as a permanent advisory body to the executive and legislative branches of King County government. Commissioners serve on a volunteer basis for a term of three years and work to develop coordinated strategies and solutions that address the priorities of immigrant and refugee communities throughout the county.  

KCIRC meets monthly and is comprised of 13 voting members and four non-voting members. Member duties include: 

• Assist and advise the executive and legislative branch on issues, programs, and policies impacting immigrant and refugee communities; 

• Collaborate with the County to ensure effective outreach and engagement to immigrant and refugee communities;  

• Assist with the development and implementation of King County policies and regulations protecting and impacting immigrant and refugee communities; 

• Assist with development and review of County initiatives to ensure that the priorities of immigrants and refugees are incorporated; 

• Evaluate County programs and services from the perspective of immigrant and refugee communities; 

• Continual review of resources and support for issues affecting immigrant and refugee communities; 

• Increase public awareness of immigrants and refugees and their contributions to our community; 

• Promote naturalization as a path toward civic and economic integration. 

The commission represents the diversity and vibrancy of King County’s immigrant and refugee communities. Qualifications for commissioners include: 

• Commissioners must reside in King County and be well versed on issues impacting immigrant and refugee communities;  

• Commissioners shall reflect the diversity of ethnicities, gender, age, sexual orientation, professional backgrounds, socioeconomic status, and geographic areas that make up the fabric of County communities; 

• Commissioners should be well-versed on issues affecting immigrant and refugee communities locally and nationally; 

• Individuals representing immigrant-led and/or faith-based organizations are encouraged to apply. 

Priority for the current recruitment cycle will be given to applicants nominated by an immigrant-led organization that serves one or more immigrant and refugee communities in King County.  

Interested community members can access application materials on the KCIRC website and apply online. Applicants may include the following documents in support of their application, but they are not required: 

• Resume 

• Letter of Interest 

• Professional Certificates or Licenses 

As required by the ordinance, applicants who are selected to join the commission must submit 10 endorsement signatures and two letters of recommendation via email to kcirc@kingcounty.gov within four weeks of being notified. One letter must be from a non-profit serving immigrant and refugee communities.

For questions or language or technical assistance, please contact kcirc@kingcounty.gov.