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As we reflect on the year behind us, we remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting civil rights and access to opportunity for everyone in who lives, works, and plays in Seattle.
This year, we worked to uphold civil rights by investigating discrimination complaints and conducting “secret shopper” tests to ensure fair treatment under the law for workers, renters, and people with disabilities.
Alongside this work, we created data-driven research and community-informed analysis to guide lawmakers and raise public awareness about civil rights implications of emerging legislation. We also strengthened inclusive civic engagement by supporting the work of our community-led advisory commissions and welcoming high school students to our new Youth Civic Engagement Program. Last but not least, we facilitated racial equity trainings for City staff and increased our investments in community-owned alternatives to incarceration to support healing, accountability, and safety outside the criminal legal system.
To learn more about our work, visit the 2025 Year in Review on our blog.
Photo caption: Our team of hardworking staff, whose commitment to equity and service makes our work possible.
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Experiencing discrimination? Contact us to file a complaint
Discrimination is illegal when you are harmed and treated differently from others in similar situation based on your race, gender, or any other protected class. If you have experienced discrimination or harassment based on your race, citizenship status, gender identity, or any other protected class, contact our office. We will listen, investigate your complaint, or refer you to the appropriate agency for help. Visit our website to contact us and learn more.
Know Your Rights Resource Guide for Immigrants, Refugees, and Advocates
Did you know immigration and citizenship status is a protected class? In partnership with the Office of Mayor Bruce Harrell and the Seattle Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, we created a resource guide to support immigrant and refugee communities in Seattle. This guide offers essential information on legal rights, local resources, and family safety planning in English and Spanish.
We encourage all community members, local partners, and advocates to utilize this resource as we work together to create a safer, more informed, and welcoming city for everyone.
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Video Resources for Businesses
This year, we created videos to educate businesses on how to follow antidiscrimination laws and provide reasonable accommodations for disabilities. The videos are available on our YouTube channel with captions in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese.
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Collective Network Community Grants
Since 2020, the Seattle Office for Civil Rights has invested over in community-owned alternatives to the incarceration. To build on this commitment, we released an additional $570,000 Request for Proposals inviting community organizations and coalitions to apply for funding to to address domestic violence. Selected programs will support healing and accountability for survivors while providing those engaging in abusive behavior with resources for transformation outside of the criminal legal system. Awards will be announced in January.
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Share Your Thoughts on Community Development
The City of Seattle is applying for approximately $18 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that could be used to repair, renovate, or construct homes, buildings, playgrounds, and parks. This federal money could also be used to pay for public services like shelters, home rental assistance, childcare, medical care, and senior programs.
This is an opportunity to tell the City about your priorities for community development! The public comment period for the plan runs through December 30. Share your thoughts through this online form.
Prepare for Winter Weather
From atmospheric rivers and heavy rain to landslides and windstorms, Western Washington weather can change quickly. The Seattle Department of Transportation works year-round to keep people and goods moving safely, especially during fall and winter storm season. Visit SDOT's website to learn how to prepare for severe weather.
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WSDOT's I-5 Revive Construction is Back
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is rehabilitating the I-5 Ship Canal Bridge in Seattle. In 2026, you can expect long-term lane reductions on northbound I-5 across the Ship Canal Bridge, as well as several full weekend closures on northbound I-5. Transit is a great way to get around and enjoy everything Seattle has to offer throughout the year. Learn about your travel options at FlipYourTrip.org. For details about Revive I-5, visit WDOT’s website at bit.ly/ConstructionI-5.
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Celebrate the Solstice at LONGEST NIGHT — A Free Interactive Event
Join the Seattle Office of Arts & Culture (OAC) on December 21 from 5 to 9 p.m. as King Street Station is transformed to celebrate the longest night of 2025. LONGEST NIGHT is a free, community-centered Solstice party featuring guided movement, wellness activities, participatory rituals, and immersive ambient soundscapes. Reserve your spot on the OAC website.
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