Seeking engagement and a voice in local human rights discourse, Snohomish County is on the lookout for civic-minded individuals ready to fill seats on its Human Rights Commission. The call is out for volunteers to step forward, willing to commit to three-year terms of service on a body that has carved out its place as an educational, advisory, and advocacy force since its inception in 2010. Specifically, there are immediate vacancies for a resident of District 4 — covering Brier, Mill Creek, Mountlake Terrace, and Bothell areas.
The commission's role is distinctly outlined. It exists to educate, to advocate, to advise — to be a compass pointing towards the true north of human rights within the bureaucratic machinations of the county. According to a public notice from the county, applicants should be active volunteers to quickly adapt within the complex landscape of human rights issues and should particularly come from communities that find themselves often sidelined in these conversations.
The makeup of this commission is set at nine members, each bringing their own perspective borne from their life and work within Snohomish County. These individuals are appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council, with the stipulation that they cannot serve more than three consecutive terms. The commission's meeting schedule consists of monthly public assemblies and its members dedicate additional effort in various activities, including special events and concerted outreach programs focused squarely on the community.
Residents with a charged interest in the crucible of human rights and a readiness to serve their community are encouraged to express such intent. The commission's next meeting, slated for a virtual gathering at 6:00 p.m. on the first Thursday of August, is open to the public — offering a firsthand glimpse into the commission's ongoing discourse on human rights. In the network of entities fighting to fortify these rights, the county positions the Human Rights Commission notably at the forefront.
