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As we reflect on the summer celebrations of freedom this year, ponder how we can leverage our access to freedom to create true freedom for all. The Declaration of Independence proposed America as a place of liberty and justice for all. Juneteenth celebrates progress made toward that promise through emancipation. And today the journey continues toward becoming a world of prosperity for all people.
I encourage you to ask yourself: What does freedom look like for you, your family, and your community? For me, this month, freedom is taking a moment to slow down, smell the flowers, spend time with friends and family, and simply be. Whatever freedom looks like for you, I hope you are able to enjoy it this summer and beyond.
For those who know my music-oriented mind, “I Hope You Dance” is playing in my head right now. What is your relaxing, reflection song? Please share with us at osj@snoco.org. We want to hear from you and know more about what you would like to see in The Thread. You are what holds us together!
With gratitude and determination,
Wil Johnson
Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer
Snohomish County Executive Office
On June 18, 2026, Snohomish County and our community gathered to honor freedom, uplift community voices, and celebrate resilience. Juneteenth is a day for reflection, celebration, education, and community togetherness. It honors Black resilience, culture, and the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.
The county's Juneteenth Flag-Raising Celebration featured powerful reflections from Deputy Executive Kent Patton; Council Chair Megan Dunn; NAACP of Snohomish County President John Agyapong; Everett-raised and local business owner Craig Chambers; DeLon Lewis from Everett Community College’s (EvCC) Office of Global Engagement and Social Justice; Snohomish County Sheriff Deputy Taylor Davis; and Chief DEI Officer Wil Johnson. Speakers shared heartfelt stories on the meaning of freedom filled with hope, courage, and inspiration.
The event celebrated the historical significance of June 19, 1865, the day enslaved people in Texas learned they were free, marking a defining moment of liberation and a major milestone in American history.
Juneteenth carries a powerful story in Washington State’s journey toward recognizing and honoring freedom. The state officially recognized Juneteenth as a holiday in 2021, following years of advocacy by Washington State Legislative Black Members Caucus and community leaders, championed by Representative Melanie Morgan. Governor Inslee signed it into law and just weeks later, the nation followed suit, marking June 19 as a federal holiday and affirming its place in our shared history.
Snohomish County stepped boldly into that history in 2022, becoming the first county in Washington State to raise the Juneteenth flag. It was an inspiring moment that mirrored the State’s inaugural flag‑raising. In doing so, it set a tone of pride, visibility, and unity that continues to guide our celebrations today.
Across Snohomish County, Juneteenth has evolved into a vibrant tapestry of celebrations honoring Black culture, history, and resilience. The day comes alive with the joy and togetherness found in shared meals, music, and the spark of curiosity that rises from learning and creating space for connection and understanding.
We extend our greatest gratitude to everyone who joined us to support this annual tradition. Let us continue to weave people together, deepen community bonds, and uplift the enduring spirit of freedom that Juneteenth represents.
For anyone who could not make the celebration with us, be sure to check out the Lynnwood Times article: From Slavery to Freedom.
Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer Wil Johnson.
Deputy Executive Kent Patton reading Snohomish County's 2026 Juneteenth Proclamation on Dave Somer's behalf.
Council Chair Megan Dunn.
President of the NAACP in Snohomish County, John Agyapong.
Local business owner, Craig Chambers.
DeLon Lewis from EvCC's Office of Global Engagement and Social Justice.
Deputy Taylor Davis from the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office.
To support growing community needs, Snohomish County Elections offers Spanish-language election resources and accessible voting options to help ensure all voters can participate in elections.
Spanish-language election materials are available on the Snohomish County Elections Language Access Resources page, including ballot instructions, sample ballots, the local voters’ pamphlet, and forms used to resolve signature challenges when needed. Additional Spanish-language ballot information and resources are available at VoteWA.gov.
Additionally, phone and in-person customer support is available in Spanish and other languages through a third-party interpreter service. Voters may call 425-388-3444 or visit an in-person location for language assistance.
Snohomish County Elections also provides several accessible voting options to ensure all voters can cast their ballot independently and securely.
Ballots are automatically mailed to registered voters 18 days before each election, providing a convenient and accessible option to vote privately and independently at home. Voters may return their ballot by mail or deposit it in one of the county’s 36 official ballot drop boxes.
For voters who prefer or need in-person assistance, Accessible Voting Units (AVUs) are available at the Auditor’s Office in Everett and at designated Accessible Voter Services Locations. AVUs allow voters to mark and review their ballot independently and include adjustable visual settings, audio features, touchscreen navigation, and compatibility with assistive devices.
For the August 4 Primary, in-person assistance is available at the Auditor’s Office and at Accessible Voter Services Locations in Everett, Monroe, Lynnwood, and Arlington. All locations are ADA accessible and include an AVU for voters who need accessible voting options. Voters may bring a person of their choice for assistance or request help from trained election workers. Elections staff are also available to assist all voters with voter registration, voter updates, replacement ballots, and other voting needs.
In-person locations and hours for the August 4 Primary include:
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Snohomish County Elections (Everett), 3000 Rockefeller Ave — open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Evergreen State Fairgrounds (Monroe), Lynnwood Neighborhood Center, and Medallion Inn & Suites (Arlington) — open:
- Saturday, Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Monday, Aug. 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Tuesday, Aug. 4 (Election Day) from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Voters can find additional information and support for voters with disabilities on the Information for Voters with Disabilities page, or contact Snohomish County Elections at 425-388-3444 or elections@snoco.gov for assistance or additional support.
We encourage residents to share this information so that language or accessibility needs are not barriers to participating in elections.
Sitting proudly off Oakes Street between 16th and 17th, the Everett Free Pantry is a small cabinet making a big difference. Open 24/7, this community‑run, mutual aid pantry offers shelf‑stable food, toiletries, baby supplies, cleaning items, and other essentials to anyone who needs them, no questions asked. It’s a simple system: take what you need, leave what you can.
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The pantry came to life thanks to Everett resident Cassidi Kenyon, who recognized how many local families were feeling the strain of rising grocery costs and living paycheck to paycheck. The pantry quickly became a lifeline. Notes left in its community notebook share stories of gratitude, hope, and the meaningful impact a single can of food or bottle of shampoo can have. What began as one small cabinet expanded almost immediately due to high demand, underscoring both the real need and the remarkable compassion within our community.
Contributing is as easy as stopping by the alley and leaving an item or sharing the pantry’s location with someone who may benefit. Every donation, big or small can bring comfort, dignity, and a moment of relief to a neighbor who needs it.
The Everett Free Pantry is a beautiful and powerful reminder that when we show up for one another, we build a stronger, kinder community for all.
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For more information on local food banks, hot meal programs, or free meal programs, explore the links below:
Food Resources in Snohomish County
Snohomish County Food Coalition
Free School Meals — Hunger Free Washington
Free Summer Food — Hunger Free Washington
Everett Food Banks
Snohomish Community Food Bank
Resources and Local Food Banks
Everett Hot Meal
Snohomish County Hot Meals
In collaboration with the County and our dedicated community partners, the Office of Social Justice is proud to share the progress we are making through our Equity Action Plan. This plan identifies key priorities that guide our commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout Snohomish County government.
One of our first strategic priorities is providing meaningful DEI training and education to all County staff. Over the past few months, we have rolled out two essential trainings:
- A Guide to Healthy Communication
- Diversity in the Workplace: Diversity for All
We are thrilled to see steady weekly growth in completion rates. Some departments are already achieving completion levels in the 90% range for both trainings. This momentum is inspiring and clearly demonstrates the positive impact of OSJ’s work. By offering these educational opportunities, we are helping move Snohomish County forward and making real progress toward fulfilling our strategic priorities.
A special thank‑you goes out to our leadership teams and department liaisons who have championed the importance of DEI. And congratulations to everyone who has completed the trainings so far. Your engagement supports the County's mission, values, and vision, and truly strengthens the foundation of equity we are building together. Every step you take contributes to meaningful and lasting change.
We'd love to hear from you! How many of you would be interested in participating in or attending in‑person trainings? Please share your thoughts, ideas, or feedback with us at osj@snoco.org. Your voice plays an essential role in shaping the future of this work.
Thank you for your continued commitment. Together, we are making a big difference.
Thank you to all the organizations that participated in the application process. Applications are now in review with our dedicated Community Investment Initiative team.
As a reminder, recipients will be notified on July 15. All required documents as outlined to the recipients must be received by July 31. Funds will be issued to the recipients by the end of August.
The OSJ Community Investment Initiative strives to promote equitable participation by all individuals in social, civic, and economic endeavors within Snohomish County. This investment opportunity focuses on these goals so together we can have an impact for our families and future generations.
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Questions about the Community Investment Initiative? Please visit our website or contact: OSJ@snoco.org. for more information. |
Independence Day
Every Fourth of July, Americans come together to honor the birthday our nation. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted for independence from the British Empire. Two days later, the Declaration of Independence was officially adopted marking the birth of the United States as a free and independent nation.
Since becoming a federal holiday in 1938, Independence Day has grown into one of the most cherished celebrations in our country. From dazzling fireworks and lively parades to outdoor concerts, family gatherings, and classic backyard barbecues, communities nationwide unite in festive traditions that date all the way back to the American Revolution.
This year marks 250 years since the United States of America declared its independence from the British Empire. This Fourth of July is an especially powerful moment of reflection and celebration. Let us embrace the pride, joy, and gratitude that come with being part of this enduring American story. Grab your red, white, and blue and join in the celebration!
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Disability Pride Month celebrates the incredible achievements and inspiring contributions of people with disabilities. This month highlights creativity, resilience, and talent while championing inclusion and accessibility for all. It’s a chance to break down barriers and celebrate inclusion. Let's cheer on the innovators, leaders, creators, and everyday trailblazers who make our communities stronger.
National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month focuses on the mental health challenges faced in minority communities and celebrates the resources, support, and conversations that can truly make a difference. By raising awareness, breaking down stigma, and empowering people with the tools they need to thrive, we open the door to healing, connection, and understanding.
French-American Heritage Month celebrates the vibrant cultural contributions and influence of French‑American Heritage across the nation. From art and cuisine to language, history, and innovation, this month recognizes the traditions and creativity that have helped shape the American story.
National Fragile X Awareness Month raises awareness about Fragile X syndrome, a genetic condition that can impact intellectual development and impacts men more than women. This month empower families, educators, and communities with knowledge and resources to help create a more supportive and inclusive world for everyone affected by Fragile X.
July local community events and gatherings are here! We encourage you to participate in any event that is meaningful to you.
- Come celebrate 250 years of our nation at the 250th Anniversary Celebration Community Pancake Breakfast in Lynnwood on July 3 from 8am to 10am. Enjoy a free pancake breakfast with your friends and neighbors!
- Everett celebrates Independence Day with the Colors of Freedom Festival on July 4 from 3pm to 11pm at Legion Memorial Park. The sky will come alive at 10:15pm. Free admission!
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Sharing Wheels 4th of July Parade Ride celebrates our country's 250th birthday on two-wheels! Meet at the Sharing Wheels Community Bike Shop in Everett on July 4 10:30am. Check out their Fix-a-Flat Class on Sunday, July 12 at 12pm.
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Stanwood Salute to America celebrates America's 250th Birthday with their community 4th of July celebration at Heritage Park in Stanwood. The event begins at 2pm with a fireworks show at 9pm.
- Angel of the Winds America 250 Birthday Bash at the Evergreen Speedway in Monroe on July 4 from 6pm - 10pm. Come see the demo derby, boat races, fireworks and more!
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Aquafest, a tradition 57 years in the making in Lake Stevens kicks off with a carnival on July 9. The three-day festival at North Cove Park runs from July 10 through July 12. Enjoy the parades, live music, fireworks over the lake, water sports, family activities, community spirit and more!
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Jackson Summer Soccer Camp in Mill Creek at Henry M. Jackson High School, July 13 - 14. The Jackson Girls Soccer Program is hosting a fun and instructional soccer camp for players of all skill levels. Open to all youth in grades K-8.
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Music at the Marina returns for a summer full of great artists and bands at the Port of Everett Marina starting July 2 through August 27. Free for all to attend. Be sure to check out the after parties happening around downtown Everett.
- Summer Concerts in the Parks and other cultural events are lighting up Edmonds all season long! Check out the City of Edmonds Concerts online and jump into the summer fun!
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Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire event is open to all every weekend starting July 18 through August 16. Transport yourself to 16th Century Elizabethan England and discover the Village of Merriwick at Sky Meadows in Snohomish!
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The Snohomish County Black Heritage Committee will host the 33rd Annual Nubian Jam on Saturday, July 25 from 10am to 7pm at Forest Park, 802 E. Mukilteo Blvd., Everett, WA 98203. Free community event!
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Stay tuned for more events in our community!
Have an inclusive community event you'd like to share? Send event details to osj@snoco.org. Due to space constraints, not all submissions can be published.
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