Equity in Issaquah

protest

Here in Issaquah, kindness is our strength. We are welcoming and inclusive, but more work needs to be done.

Issaquah is committed to:

  • Listening to a diverse range of opinions, stories and perspectives.
  • Continuing the dialogue, and sharing what we’ve heard.
  • Implementing change as a community.

Moving forward, we must come together in our community conversations – and ensure everyone has a voice that is heard.

Action Plan

Following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, people across our country – including on the steps of Issaquah City Hall – rightfully demonstrated against racial injustice throughout our country.

The Black Lives Matters demonstrators asked that we take this moment to talk about what we need to do as a community to recognize racial bias, and make changes to eliminate the disproportionate damage it is doing to community members of color.

In 2020, after engaging with the community and incorporating feedback, Issaquah adopted a Police Accountability, Equity and Human Services Action Plan, which outlines the City's efforts moving forward. 

Track the City's progress on the plan via our quarterly workplan updates. As part of the plan, our police department also issues a monthly activity report that summarizes crimes reported, communications at our call center and officer calls for service. 

Equity Board

The Police Accountability, Equity and Human Services Action Plan also tasked the Human Services Commission with evaluating the role of residents in the City’s Equity initiatives. 

Following significant community engagement, the Human Services Commission recommended the creation of an Equity Board in Issaquah, which the City Council formally approved Aug. 2, 2021.

This volunteer board supports and cultivates the voices of the diverse communities in Issaquah by advising local leaders and our staff on Issaquah’s plans, policies, regulations and programs related to equity initiatives.  

For more information, please visit the Equity Board webpage.

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