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DDI Newsletters

DDI ADVOCACY ALERT JULY 2022

“WE THE PEOPLE, IN ORDER TO CREATE A MORE PERFECT UNION..."

The elections ahead provide us with an opportunity to continue to work to make America that “…MORE PERFECT UNION…”. We have opportunities to talk with, research, study, then ultimately to VOTE for the best possible candidate(s) that represent YOUR Interests, Needs and Concerns. We have an obligation to work at this democratic process to increase the conversation and dialogue with all parties to ensure that all issues, needs, and concerns are expressed and addressed as we work together “… TO CREATE A MORE PERFECT UNION…”.

This is how America has evolved. This is how America should continue to evolve. We should continue the conversations, work, discuss, debate, and ultimately agree on a common goal. Does it always work and work fairly for everyone – NO! Is it applied uniformly and equitably - NO! Can we give up and quit – NO!

IT IS OUR JOB to work toward that goal of fair, equitable, uniform, and consistent. IT IS OUR JOB to work for the common good of all. IT IS OUR JOB to work for those that have no voice, that have no real representation that looks like them or understands their issues, needs, and concerns. IT IS OUR JOB to continue the work “… TO CREATE A MORE PERFECT UNION…”. WE are “…THE PEOPLE…” and it’s OUR Responsibility, Duty, and Obligation to do this work!

That is what DEMOCRATS FOR DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION was created to do. To expand the voice of the voiceless, to increase minority representatives at all levels of government so issues of all would be heard and addressed, and to ensure that our needs, interests, and concerns are understood and addressed by the elected and appointed officials and the Democratic Party.

That work begins TODAY with YOU!!! As you review YOUR Ballot and Vote know YOU are participating in the evolution of American democracy. The right to vote has expanded to include women, African Americans, and 18-year-olds. Human and civil rights have expanded. Harassment and discrimination is illegal.

Know that YOU are making a difference for democracy, for diversity, and for inclusion.

Know that YOU are the “WE THE PEOPLE” and that YOU are working and doing YOUR part to make this country “…A MORE PERFECT UNION…“. Know that Together We Can continue the work that needs to be done.

America needs YOU, Democracy needs YOU, Democrats for Diversity and Inclusion needs YOU.

Vote and commit to working for the “MORE PERFECT UNION”.

Be sure YOU Vote and Return YOUR Ballot by August 2nd .

2022 Primary* Endorsements

U.S. Senator * Patty Murray

Congressional 1 * Suzan DelBene

Congressional 7 * Pramila Jayapal

Congressional 8 * Kim Schrier

Congressional 9 * Adam Smith

Secretary of State * Steve Hobbs

King County Prosecutor * Leesa Manion

Legislative 1 Position 1 * Davina Duerr

Legislative 1 Position 2 * Shelley Kloba

Legislative 5 Position 1 * Bill Ramos

Legislative 5 Position 2 * Lisa Callan

Legislative 11 Position 1 David Hackney

Legislative 11 Position 2 * Steve Bergquist

Legislative 30 SENATE * Claire Wilson

Legislative 30 Position 1 * Jamila E. Taylor

Legislative 30 Position 2 * Rev. Carey Anderson

Legislative 31 Position 1 * Holly Stanton

Legislative 32 SENATE * Patricia Weber

Legislative 32 Position 1 * Cindy Ryu

Legislative 32 Position 2 * Lauren Davis

Legislative 33 SENATE Karen Keiser

Legislative 33 Position 1 Tina L. Orwall

Legislative 33 Position 2 Mia Su-Ling Gregerson

Legislative 34 SENATE * Joe Nguyen

Legislative 34 Position 1 * Emily Alvarado

Legislative 36SENATE * Noel Frame

Legislative 36 Position 1 * Julia G. Reed

Legislative 37 Position 1 * Sharon Tomiko Santos

Legislative 37 Position 2 * Emijah Smith

Legislative 41 Position 1 * Tana Senn

Legislative 41 Position 2 * My-Linh T. Thai

Legislative 43 SENATE Jamie Pedersen

Legislative 43 Position 1 Nicole Macri

Legislative 43 Position 2 Frank Chopp

Legislative 45 SENATE * Manka Dhingra

Legislative 45 Position 1 * Roger Goodman

Legislative 45 Position 2 * Larry Springer

Legislative 46 SENATE * Javier Valdez

Legislative 46 Position 1 * Gerry Pollet

Legislative 47 Position 1 Debra Jean Entenman

Legislative 47 Position 2 * Shukri Olow

Legislative 48 SENATE * Patty Kuderer

Legislative 48 Position 1 Vandana Slatter

Supreme Court Justice Position #01 Mary I. Yu

Supreme Court Justice Position #05 Barbara Madsen

Supreme Court Justice Position #06 G. Helen Whitener

Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 1 Judge Position 1 Ian Birk

King County Superior Court Judge Position 2 Kristin Ballinger

King County Superior Court Judge Position 8 Matthew Lapin

King County Superior Court Judge Position 12 Haydee Vargas

King County Superior Court Judge Position 18 Jason C. Poydras

King County Superior Court Judge Position 44 Jason Holloway

Northeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 1 Marcus Naylor

Northeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 2 Michelle Gehlsen

Northeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 3 Lisa O'Toole

Northeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 4 Kevin Peck

Northeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 5 Jill Klinge

Northeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 7 E. Rania Rampersad

Shoreline Electoral District Judge Position No. 1 Joe Campagna

Shoreline Electoral District Judge Position No. 2 Karama Hawkins

Southeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 3 Nathaniel B. Green, Jr.

Southeast Electoral District Judge Position No. 2 Andrea S. Jarmon

City of Seattle, Municipal Court Judge No. 3 * Pooja Vaddadi

City of Seattle, Municipal Court Judge No. 4 Anita Crawford-Willis

City of Seattle, Municipal Court Judge No. 5 Willie Gregory

City of Seattle, Municipal Court Judge No. 6 Faye R. Chess

City of Seattle, Municipal Court Judge No. 7 * Damon Shadid

West Electoral District Judge No 3 Rebecca Robertson

West Electoral District Judge No 5 Kristen Shotwell

West Electoral District Judge No 2 Kuljinder Dhillon

West Electoral District Judge No1 Lisa A. Paglisotti

Southwest Electoral District Brian Todd

Southwest Electoral District Fa'Amomoi Masaniai

* Indicates candidate has a Primary race

DDI May 2022 Newsletter – ADVOCACY ALERT

Precinct Committee Officer (PCO) Filing Period - Now Is the Time

If you are currently a PCO your term ends after the General Elections this Fall. You Must File as a Precinct Committee Candidate May 16th – May 20th to be reelected to your PCO position.

Why be a Precinct Committee Officer (PCO)? PCOs are an integral role in the activities and programs of the Democratic Party. PCO’s connect with their neighbors and friends that live in their community which is called a precinct. PCOs provide the residents in their neighborhood/precinct information from the local Democratic Party about coming elections, initiatives/referendums, and recommended candidates.

PCOs vote on the recommendations from their Legislative District’s Endorsement committee regarding potential candidates. On occasion, PCOs get to vote on replacements for elected office when a vacancy occurs mid-term for a person to hold until the next election. PCOs vote on the Party Officers at the local/Legislative District (LD) and county levels.

Online PCO Candidate filing is open on the King County Elections website from: 9:00am May 16, 2022 continuously through 4:00 pm May 20, 2022

Check the King County Elections website Running for office in King County - King County for more information about how to find your precinct and qualify so you can run to be a PCO. Then click on the PCO Online form link Online Precinct Committee Officer (PCO) filing - King County. YOU MUST FILE BY MAY 20TH!! DDI IN ACTION - 2022

This past Winter has been a very busy period for Democrats for Diversity and Inclusion (DDI). The year started with Special Presentation from Julie Anne Kempf - Redistricting King County PCOs and LD Leadership. Later in January DDI connected joined in with “King County-wide Precinct Committee Officers 2022 Kickoff Virtual Meeting” that was on Sunday, January 30th from 1:00pm - 2:30pm. PCO’s from across our county will gather together virtually to connect with each other, interact with local leaders, and learn what’s coming up in the year ahead.

Thanks to the coordinated and consistent work of the Washington Equity Now Alliance (DDI is a member and active partner), Governor Inslee issued an Executive Order 22-02 which stated in part that:

“ … Washington will be an anti-racist state, and committed to take actions that hold our state in that commitment. I propose an historic equity package of policies and funding that reflects our dedication toward disrupting the harmful systemic cycle of racism and inequity.”

The four major areas of focus for the Executive Order were public contracting, public employment, public education, and public services. (Executive Order 22-02 (waequitynow.com))

In February we had Special Presentation from our Port of Seattle Commissioners Toshiko Hasegawa and Hamdi Mohamed DDI Members met with and lobbied legislators on issues and concerns impacting communities of color throughout the Legislative Session. They also participated in African American Legislative Day events and activities. They worked on several matters at the city and county levels as well.

In March, Joe Todd, Commissioner on the Commission of African American Affairs addressed the members about his experience running for office. Also in March many DDI members were elected delegates to the Washington State Democratic Party Convention (June 24-25) and initial preparations were made to begin the DDI Candidate Endorsement process. DDI was vigilant in working to increase diversity and work toward achieving the affirmative action goals for the delegations representing local Legislative Districts.

DDI SPECIAL GUESTS and PRESENTATIONS - Past and Potential

A key part of the agenda of most DDI Meetings is a special guest and presenter. These presenters provide unique insights and information on a variety of issues and concerns impacting communities of color and minority voters. Not only do these presenters provide information and insights, they also provided suggestions and recommendations on activities and events DDI can participate in. Often, they provided recommendations on positions and stands for DDI to take on key issues and concerns.

We have a wide range of presenters at the DDI meetings. King County Democratic Party Chair Shasti Conrad has attended as well as State Representatives Zack Hudgins, David Hackney, Jesse Johnson, and Jamila Taylor. Newly elected Port of Seattle Commissioners Toshiko Hasegawa, and Hamdi Mohamed. Community activists Monique Taylor Swann; SEIU/AFRAM, Katie Schultz; Win- Win, and Eddie Rye; Radio Personality, Joseph Todd; African American Commission, and Dr Linda Smith Renton African American Pastors/Renton King County Alliance for Justice, and Robert Stephens; Garfield Community Group and others have all attended and provided updates and information for DDI Members.

Future presenters include elected officials at the local, county, and state levels of government. We will also have various departments heads and commissioners. We will continue to invite Democratic party officials from all levels of the Party.

DDI GENERAL MEMEBRSHIP MEETINGS– What, When, and Why

Everyone is welcome and invited to attend and participate in the Democrats for Diversity and Inclusion Monthly General Membership Meetings. DDI meetings are the first Monday of each month (unless a Federal Holiday). They begin at 7:00p.m. This year the Democrats for Diversity and Inclusion (DDI) Meetings continue virtually. Members discuss and determine DDI positions on issues, policies, and practices impacting communities of color. Members vote of organizational matters as well.

Who attends DDI General Membership Meeting? DDI members attend the DDI General Membership meetings. Additionally, candidates for office often attend and provide information about the candidacy and campaigns. Elected officials also attend and give brief updates on issues from their different offices. Community activists and organizers have attended and provided DDI members updates on key issues and activities throughout the region. Party officials attend and provide insights and information and take input from DDI members present. As needed, the DDI Endorsement committee hosts candidate forums for special races that members are extremely interested in.

“While DDI meetings address a variety of issues and concerns, we spend time getting to know each other through member introductions and community updates and announcements”, said Clarence Gunn, DDI President. He concluded, “I encourage everyone committed to diversity and inclusion to attend a DDI Meeting and to learn more about DDI and its mission and vision.”

To learn more about DDI go to our website DemocratsForDiversityandInclusion.net. You can leave a message there to get information. You can become a member of DDI by joining at the membership link Store (democratsfordiversityandinclusion.net).

Your Role and Opportunities

TODAY, YOU can become a DDI member!!! As you can see there are many activities and projects DDI is involved in. We make an impact and a difference!!! With YOU on the DDI Team, YOU increase the possibilities and the power of DDI’s voice for minorities and communities of color. Here’s the link to join Store (democratsfordiversityandinclusion.net).

December 2021

2021 A Most Challenging Year.

This past year has been very challenging. The Covid virus crisis has impacted every aspect of life, it has impacted employment, education, transportation, and most importantly health care. The COVID virus has disproportionality impacted communities of color to a greater degree than any other population. DDI members continued to work on issues impacting communities and changing the landscape so elected and appointed officials addressed key issues and concerns. DDI Members were engaged throughout the legislative session tracking and impacting major legislation around police reform, economic development, and social justice. Many gains were made and there were major starts on multiple fronts. DDI then pivoted to Elections 2021 reviewing credentials and then interviewing candidates for offices from the Seattle Mayor to the Seattle City Council, to Port of Seattle Commissioners, the King County Executive and the King County Council, to city councils throughout King County. DDI was even successful in getting two DDI members, Monique Taylor Swan elected to Hospital District 1 Position 4, and Steve Kasner reelected to the East Bellevue Community Council Position 1. Throughout the year DDI was involved in carious issues and concerns.

At our monthly membership meetings we had major speakers presenting on a variety of topics. Shasti Conrad, Chair King County Democratic Party; Paul Jackson, DDI Facebook; Annie Tran, Seattle Democracy Voucher Program; April Sims, the Washington Redistricting Commission; Representatives Jesse Johnson and David Hackney, Washington State Legislators Districts 30 and 11 respectively; Sharon Mast, Democratic National Party Committee member; and Dr. Joycelyn Thomas, Virginia Mason Health; and Dr. Linda Smith, Renton Anti-Racism Coalition; among others.

The DDI Executive Board spent considerable building infrastructure and operational procedures and processes to support the on-going and growing work of DDI. Budgets were developed for the coming year and communications systems expanded. The DDI website and Facebook pages were updated and upgraded. Membership, PR and marketing, and fundraising campaigns were developed and initiated. Activities and programs were prioritized and plans developed for implementation. As we begin the new year there is much work to be done. We must remain steadfast to our original mission “To Promote, Protect and Preserve Diversity and Inclusion”, by enacting and enforcing Federal, State, local laws and by-laws which advance Diversity & Inclusion. The DDI committees are the perfect place for members to become involved in. Check out the DDI website (DemocratsForDiversityandInclusion.net) for the list of committees and ways to get involved.

To achieve this mission we will be:

· monitoring and working to impact legislation that impacts black and communities of color.

· preparing for the 2022 Legislative and Congressional Election cycle.

· working with black and other minority groups and organizations on common issues and interests

· working with youth groups/organizations to educate and empower them to express their voice

· continue to fight for diversity and inclusion at every opportunity and venue

The new year is the perfect time to join DDI and become involved. The membership website is democratsfordiversityandinclusion.net. Go to the DDI Store page and click on the membership category appropriate for you. If you have questions or concerns, ideas and suggestions for DDI to consider for the coming year please contact me at DDI@DemocratsforDiversity.org. Clarence Gunn, President DDI

End of the Year 2021

2021 A Most Challenging Year.

DDI members continued to work on issues impacting communities and changing the landscape so elected and appointed officials addressed key issues and concerns. DDI Members were engaged throughout the legislative session tracking and impacting major legislation around police reform, economic development, and social justice. Many gains were made and there were major starts on multiple fronts.

DDI then pivoted to Elections 2021 reviewing credentials and then interviewing candidates for offices from the Seattle Mayor to the Seattle City Council, to Port of Seattle Commissioners, the King County Executive and the King County Council, to city councils throughout King County. DDI was even successful in getting two DDI members, Monique Taylor Swan elected to Hospital District 1 Position 4, and Steve Kasner reelected to the East Bellevue Community Council Position 1.

Throughout the year DDI was involved in carious issues and concerns. At our monthly membership meetings we had major speakers presenting on a variety of topics. Shasti Conrad, Chair King County Democratic Party; Paul Jackson, DDI Facebook; Annie Tran, Seattle Democracy Voucher Program; April Sims, the Washington Redistricting Commission; Representatives Jesse Johnson and David Hackney, Washington State Legislators Districts 30 and 11 respectively; Sharon Mast, Democratic National Party Committee member; and Dr. Joycelyn Thomas, Virginia Mason Health; and Dr. Linda Smith, Renton Anti-Racism Coalition; among others.

The DDI Executive Board spent considerable time building infrastructure and operational procedures and processes to support the on-going and growing work of DDI. Budgets were developed for the coming year and communications systems expanded. The DDI website and Facebook pages were updated and upgraded. Membership, PR and marketing, and fundraising campaigns were developed and initiated. Activities and programs were prioritized and plans developed for implementation.

As we begin the new year there is much work to be done. We must remain steadfast to our original mission “To Promote, Protect and Preserve Diversity and Inclusion”, by enacting and enforcing Federal, State, local laws and by-laws which advance Diversity & Inclusion. The DDI committees are the perfect place for members to become involved in. Check out the DDI website (DemocratsForDiversityandInclusion.net) for the list of committees and ways to get involved.

To achieve this mission we will be:

· monitoring and working to impact legislation that impacts black and communities of color.

· preparing for the 2022 Legislative and Congressional Election cycle.

· working with black and other minority groups and organizations on common issues and interests.

· working with youth groups/organizations to educate and empower them to express their voice.

· continue to fight for diversity and inclusion at every opportunity and venue.

The new year is the perfect time to join DDI and become involved. The membership website is democratsfordiversityandinclusion.net. Go to the DDI Store page and click on the membership category appropriate for you.

If you have questions or concerns, ideas and suggestions for DDI to consider for the coming year please contact me at DDI@DemocratsforDiversity.org.

Clarence Gunn, President DDI

April 2021

As we enter Spring, the year seems to have picked up speed. The Legislative Session, Political Campaigns, Redistricting, Democracy Vouchers, and COVID Vaccinations all head the news on the state and local level. DDI Has been planning and preparing for the coming year with membership drives, legislative and political activities, redistricting engagement, improved communications and media plans, fundraisers, and more. DDI has been actively connecting with area legislators re issues and bills important to communities of color. The focus has been economic and social justice, and police reform, among the main issues.DDI has begun planning for involvement in the coming political season.

We have had a session with the Seattle Democracy Voucher office to be sure all members have received their Democracy Voucher so they can contribute to the candidate of their choice in the coming Seattle Mayoral, City Council, and City Attorney races. We are focusing on increasing voter registration, and turnout in the city and county elections coming up this year. We are finalizing our interview and endorsement procedures and processes for targeted races.

DDI has already had a conversation with one of the Commissioners on the Washington State Redistricting Commission. This Commission will redraw the legislative district maps based on the 2020 Census data and the moving populations across the state.

Most importantly we are encouraging all members to get their COVID Vaccinations as they are available.

We have been in various conversations to make sure there is equity in the availability and access of the COVIUD Vaccine in communities of color.

Coming soon is a survey to set priorities for various programs, activities, and events that the DDI Executive Board has proposed for the coming year. Look for an email soon. We are also planning a fundraiser to help underwrite the costs of DDI Programs, activities, and events.

WE encourage everyone to renew this membership this month, because YOU are a VITAL PART of DDI and its programs and activities. Together, we are able to make a difference at the city, county and state levels advocating for diversity, inclusion, and equity in the policies and practices at all levels of government. If you have questions, comments, suggestions, or recommendations please contact me at gunn32@aol.comClarence

Gunn, President DDI

January 2021

Installation, Insurrection, Inauguration, Initiation, and “I”January has been a very active month this year. We started with a different focus of moving forward. We looked to move forward to:

Addressing the COVID crisis impacting our nation.
Working with a New President committed to fighting for progressive ideals and diversity. A new DDI Leadership Team working to move DDI forward.
A year filled with positivity, promise, and opportunities, challenges and rewarding results.

Here’s what we got. Installation – At the January 4th DDI meeting the newly elected officers of DDI were installed (see DDI Officer page for list). WE look forward to an active year and need everyone to be active and participate.

Insurrection – On January 6th, the day Congress was supposed to certify the election votes from the Electoral College, President Trump held a rally with his supporters that had been told ever since the election that the election was stolen. He continued this same message at the rally. Immediately following that Rally the march on the Capitol turned into a full- on occupation and hunt for Members of Congress.

This disruption didn’t deter Congress from doing their Constitutionally required role and they completed their task later that evening, certifying the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as President and Vice-President.

Inauguration – On January 20th we all witnessed the inauguration and swearing in of the newly elected President and Vice-President. Though it felt different due to COVID concerns eliminating the crowds and pageantry. There was also a strong military presence due to threats of violence interrupting the proceedings (fortunately no violence occurred).

Initiation – Now the hard work begins. At the national level, President Biden began with a series of Executive Orders addressing a wide range of issues and concerns.

At the State level, the new State Legislature began its new session for the first time with NINE (9) black members of the legislature. (See List of Black Members Caucus page)
At the local level, the DDI Executive Board met and began developing plans for the coming year.

“I”- it is important for every DDI Member, Friend, Supporter, and Ally to ask, “What can I do”? Each of you have the power to make different and each and every one of us have various skills, talents and abilities. ASK yourself!

Have I joined DDI (www.democratsfordiversityandinclusion.net/store)
Have I volunteered to help a committee?
Have I committed to making a difference in the coming year and how?

February looks to being another exciting month.

This month we celebrate Black History Month, American Heart Month, Friendship Month, and National Youth Leadership Month.

We start with the DDI Meeting Monday February 1st at 7:00p.m.In addition, African American Legislative Day February 15th. This year it is virtual so look for additional information re the time and link.

There are several important dates re legislation (www.leg.wa.gov./legislature/pages/cutoff/aspx) . Since this is a unique year due to the Legislative session being virtual, here is a link for you to use as you decide how you want to communicate your issues and concerns with your legislator, send your comments, testify at a committee meeting.(www.leg.wa.gov./legislature/pages/participating/aspx).
February also kicks off the beginning of the Democracy Vouchers mail out in the City of Seattle. Everyone that is a resident of the City of Seattle should receive your Democracy Vouchers February 9th. For additional information about the Seattle Democracy Vouchers program go to (www.seattle.gov/democracyvoucher/i-am-a-seattle-resident.)