 When I took office as Snohomish County Executive, we lacked a structured approach for addressing equity as an organization or for investing in efforts led by communities we serve. To make a real difference, we needed to change that. The Office of Social Justice reflects that conviction.
Though there is more to be done, I am genuinely proud of the progress our county has made. We have teams and individuals throughout the organization who are embracing equity not as an add-on, but as part of how they operate every day. We have examined and removed hidden barriers in our own hiring practices. We have invested in training so our employees can have honest conversations about race, inclusion, and institutional bias. And we have built or strengthened relationships with community leaders who serve as trusted bridges between government and the people we serve.
Our county is projected to reach one million residents by 2030. That growth brings enormous opportunity and real responsibility. Snohomish County’s diversity is one of our proudest achievements, and I am committed to ensuring that everyone who lives, works, and plays here feels welcome and has equal access to services and opportunity.
There is still much to do. This work isn’t a race to the finish line; it is an ongoing commitment. We must be honest about the gaps that remain, and we must always seek the next opportunity to close those gaps. I firmly believe county government exists to serve all residents.
As we look ahead to 2027, I am excited for the new opportunities the year will bring. Thank you to all the employees, leaders, and community partners who have made equity a central component of how they work. You are making a difference.
Snohomish County wants your feedback!
What does it take for individuals, families, and communities to thrive in Snohomish County? Snohomish County is conducting a countywide Community Needs Assessment to better understand the needs, strengths, and experiences of people across the county.
The assessment is an opportunity to share what is working well in your community, what challenges you are experiencing, and what resources or changes could make a meaningful difference. Your experience matters. Your voice is an important part of understanding the full picture of our communities.
Take the survey to share your perspective and help inform a better understanding of what Snohomish County communities need to thrive.
Take the survey here: Community Needs Assessment
A warm meal can offer comfort, hope, and a sense of connection, especially during challenging times. Across Snohomish County food banks, community meal programs, and local food pantries help individuals and families access the nourishment they need and remind us that no one has to face difficult times alone.
As temperatures drop, the need for food and community support can become even greater. Whether you or someone you know needs a little extra support, or you’re looking for a way to show up for your neighbors, every act of kindness matters. Consider volunteering your time, donating food or funds, or supporting a local meal program. Together, we can help ensure our neighbors feel supported, our families feel cared for, and our community grows stronger through compassion and connection.
Explore the Snohomish County Food Resources page to find local food banks, hot meal programs, and free meal services, or discover ways to lend a helping hand.
Throughout September, the Snohomish County Orange Shirt Day Committee hosted information sessions and a commemoration to honor Orange Shirt Day and raise awareness of boarding/residential schools.
What Is Orange Shirt Day?
Orange Shirt Day began in 2013 at the St. Joseph Mission Residential School Commemoration Project, where Phyllis Webstad shared how her newly purchased orange shirt was taken upon arrival at residential school. Her story contrasts the love and values of family life with the violence, isolation, and forced assimilation she experienced.
Today, Orange Shirt Day affirms “Every Child Matters,” honoring children who never returned home, remembering survivors and their families, and encouraging education and dialogue about this tragic history and its lasting impacts on Tribal/Indigenous communities.
What Were Boarding/Residential Schools?
These federal- and missionary-run institutions aimed to assimilate Tribal children. U.S. Army Captain Richard Pratt established a boarding school model demanding abandonment of Tribal traditions, conversion to Christianity, and departure from reservations for schooling and employment. He described its goal as “Kill the Indian in him and save the man.”
Attendance was mandatory, often requiring children to live far from their communities. Schools replaced traditional names and clothing with Anglo-American names and military-style uniforms. Rather than prioritize academics, they emphasized manual labor, domestic skills, and religious instruction. Children were forbidden to contact family or siblings, speak their languages, or practice cultural ceremonies. Punishments included food restrictions, corporal punishment, extended labor, and confinement. Many endured neglect, denied medical care, and physical, mental, emotional, sexual, and spiritual violence.
To learn more about the history of the Native American Boarding Schools and the Movement for Truth, Justice and Healing, please go to: NABS – NABS
Veterans Day
Behind every uniform is a story of service, a family that stands beside them, and a community forever touched by their sacrifice. This Veterans Day on November 11, we honor the courage and dedication of those who have served and express our heartfelt gratitude for all they have given.
For some veterans, the transition to civilian life brings challenges from finding stable housing and employment to accessing health care and mental health support. Understanding these experiences helps us build stronger connections and create a community where veterans and their families feel supported.
This Veterans Day, please take a moment to thank a veteran, listen to their story, support a veteran-owned business, or share resources that may help veterans and their families. Every conversation is an opportunity to connect, learn, and show appreciation. Let’s make sure those who have served know they are valued, not just on Veterans Day, but all year long.
Native American Heritage Month
This Native American Heritage Month we honor the rich histories and many traditions of the Indigenous communities whose ancestral lands span Snohomish County. The Snohomish people, Tulalip Tribes, Stillaguamish Tribe of Indians, and Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribes enrich our communities through their strength and resilience, helping shape a brighter future for generations to come.
It’s also a time to recognize the historical injustices Native communities have faced and the disparities that continue today in areas such as health care, education, housing, and economic opportunity.
We can show our support by learning about the Tribal Nations in Snohomish County, supporting Native-owned businesses and artists, attending local cultural events, and taking time to listen to Indigenous voices and perspectives to build a more inclusive and connected community.
Movember / Men’s Health Awareness Month
Men’s Health Awareness Month, also known as Movember, is a time to raise awareness about physical and mental health concerns that affect men, including transgender men and nonbinary people. From prostate and testicular cancer to mental health challenges and suicide prevention, everyone deserves access to care, support, and resources that meet their needs.
Men’s health matters, but stigma, social expectations, and barriers to health care can sometimes make it difficult to speak up or seek support. This Men’s Health Awareness, encourage the men in your life to prioritize regular health screenings, check in on their well-being, and explore resources like accessible mental health services and remind others that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Small actions can make a big difference. Together, we can break down barriers and build a community where every man feels encouraged and supported in prioritizing his health.
National Family Caregivers Month
This November, we’re celebrating the amazing people who show up every day to care for the people they love. From supporting aging parents and children to caring for family members with disabilities or chronic illnesses, caregivers give so much of their time, energy, and heart to others.
Caregiving is an act of love and every caregiver deserves support, too! Explore local support groups, caregiver programs and community resources to find ways to recharge and connect. Brighten someone's day and remind them they're not alone.
|
National Homeless Youth Awareness Month
Every young person deserves a safe place to call home. November is an opportunity to raise awareness of youth homelessness and the challenges many young people face, including poverty, family conflict, and discrimination. LGBTQ+ youth and youth of color may face additional barriers to finding safe, stable housing.
Want to make a difference? Start close to home. Support local youth shelters, donate essential supplies, volunteer with organizations serving young people, or share resources that connect youth with housing and support services. Take time to learn about the challenges young people face and amplify efforts to make housing more accessible. We can help create a community where every young person feels safe, supported, and empowered to build a brighter future.
|
Discover local events, gatherings, and opportunities to come together!
Stubus Indigenous Walking Tour
- Self-guided tour
- Approximately two miles long
- Starts at the Edmonds Waterfront, 220 Railroad Ave., Edmonds, 98020
Art Drop In Family Event
New Parents Connect
Family Caregiver Support Group
- Wednesday, November 4 & 18 (first and third Wednesday of each month)
- 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
-
Baxter Room- Community Center, 1015 State Ave., Marysville, 98270
Coastal Jam 2026
- Wednesday, November 4
- Starts at 5:30 PM
-
Gathering Hall, 6406 Marine Dr., Tulalip, 98271
Veterans Day Lunch
Well Being Community Center Vaccine Clinic
Fire on the Flood Tide SAHS Historic Lecture Series
Veterans Day Commemorative Ceremony & Parade
- Wednesday, November 11
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Ceremony
- 11:00 AM - Parade
Lunch Hour Film Screening of John Lewis: Good Trouble
-
Part 1: Thursday, November 12 from 12:05 PM - 1:00 PM
-
Part 2: Thursday, November 19 from 12:05 PM - 1:00 PM
- Snohomish County Public Meeting Rooms, Robert J. Drewel Building, 3000 Rockefeller Ave., Everett, 98201
Cocoon House's Quarterly Forum
Community Access Skate Night
Flood Ready: Resident Emergency Preparedness Training
Lake Stevens Festival of Trees
- Saturday, November 21
- 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
-
The Mill on Lake Stevens, 1808 Main St., Lake Stevens, 98258
Stories That Connect Us
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.
Subscribe! Did you receive this newsletter as a forward or link?
To subscribe to “The Thread," go to the subscriber page, enter your email, and click "Submit." On the next page, select "The Thread" under the "County Executive" section, then click "Submit" at the bottom of the page.
|
