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Director's Note—October 2024
Mayor Bruce Harrell's 2025-26 Proposed Budget was released on September 24. As I shared that day, I am pleased that his proposed Human Services Department budget of nearly $365 million sustains HSD’s core investments while addressing urgent needs. Read more below for dates and times of Council’s upcoming Public Budget Hearings on October 16 and November 12. Final adoption is expected by November 21.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month and #PurpleThursday
Ending gender-based violence, including domestic violence, has long been a goal of our department. We will soon share a proclamation by Mayor Harrell and the City Council with you in a Human Interests blog post, along with ways to build awareness and access available resources through the Mayor’s Office on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault of our Safe and Thriving Communities division.
One way we recognize and bring awareness to this cause each year is by wearing purple for Purple Thursday—October 17, in 2024. I invite you to wear purple 💜 that day as we remember those who have lost their lives and honor survivors:
- Take photos or screenshots—of yourself, your work colleagues, your friends and family—and share them on social media. Use the #PurpleThursday hashtag and tag Seattle Human Services @SeattleHSD.
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Important: If you or someone you know needs free, confidential assistance, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800−799−7233.
Indigenous Peoples Day Holiday Celebrations
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Native activists and allies who passionately advocated for the City of Seattle to officially recognize the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples Day. This year, October 14 is a time to honor the peoples who have lived on this land, recognize and respect Indigenous cultures and traditions, and look for opportunities to support Native-owned businesses and events. Many community-led celebrations are taking place around the city, including a Rally, March, and Round Dance for Peace. Visit the link below to learn more.
In community,
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 Indigenous Peoples’ Day 2024
Mark your calendars because Monday, October 14 is a day of celebration in Seattle! It's a day to recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day by honoring and celebrating Native peoples. Get ready for a day filled with festivities and appreciation for the abundant richness of Native communities, cultures, and history. There are many community-led events taking place throughout Seattle. Everyone is invited to join the gatherings to lift up and honor the vibrancy of Native communities of these lands and beyond.
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 Employee Spotlight: Jill Watson
Jill Watson has worked at HSD for 16 years in the same position as an Emergency Management Strategic Advisor, helping prepare and respond to emergencies; coordinating the City’s Emergency Support Function 6 (ESF #6) Mass Care, Housing and Human Services from planning to emergency response; and leading the Health and Human Services Branch at the Seattle Emergency Operations Center. She is on call 24/7. Visit humaninterests.seattle.gov to learn more about Jill and her impact on our community.
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 Legacy of Love 2024
HSD coordinates the annual Legacy of Love African American Caregivers Forum in collaboration with the Mayor’s Council on African American Elders and community partners. The 2024 conference on Saturday, November 2 will draw family caregivers from throughout the Pacific Northwest. Learn more at AgingKingCounty.org/LegacyOfLove.
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Combatting Ageism Here and Throughout the Country
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Ageism refers to how we think, how we feel, and how we act toward others or ourselves based on age. It can negatively impact our health and well-being, our financial security, and the economy. The good news is that we can do something about it. Spread the word that October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day and encourage everyone you know to watch the Age Friendly Seattle’s We❤Aging: Anti-Ageism Community Training. Learn more at seattle.gov/agefriendly. #EndAgeism |
Election Day is Tuesday, November 5
Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, but ballots are mailed about three weeks in advance. In Washington state, October 18 is the start of an 18-day voting period (through Election Day). Ballots are mailed out and Accessible Voting Units are available at voting centers. Be sure to return your completed ballot before 8 p.m. on November 5. For voting information anywhere in the U.S., visit VOTE411.org. |
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Demystifying the Council's Budget Process
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The Seattle City Council exclusively focuses on creating a budget for about two months every year, from late September through late November. Legislative Department staff created this interactive budget guide to help make the budget process simple to understand. Most importantly, this resource is intended to highlight when and how you can make your voice heard during the process. This includes opportunities to speak at Public Budget Hearings on Wednesday, October 16, and Wednesday, November 12. |
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