In the heart of the city's efforts to grapple with gender-based violence (GBV), one finds Judith Panlasigui steering the Mayor’s Office on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (MODVSA)—a pivotal unit within the Safe and Thriving Communities Division. Her role encompasses working in tandem with the Grants and Contracts Team, a group closely connected with community service providers that assist survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and commercial sexual exploitation. Panlasigui's coordination also stretches to convening stakeholder groups through initiatives like the Domestic Violence Intervention Project and the Coordinated Effort Against Sexual Exploitation, as noted by Seattle Human Services Department.
Drawing inspiration to ultimately serve in human services, Panlasigui attributes her passion to a childhood rich with the spirit of support and solidarity, ideals instilled by her immigrant parents. "Supporting and being there for others are values I grew up with," she recounted to Seattle Human Services Department. Experiencing and recognizing entrenched systems of sexism and racism, and seeing them through the broader lens of systemic structures, motivated her to play an active role in city government, particularly in the fight against structural racism alongside community members and peers within her department.
Reflecting on the evolution of her job, Panlasigui notes that, even though many transitions have occurred over the years, the substance of her work—to serve the community and to address safety outcome disparities—remains consistent. The Safe and Thriving Communities division has provided a comprehensive backdrop for an enhanced approach to preventing violence. Panlasigui's love for her role is palpable, especially when she speaks of her team at HSD, describing them as "some of the most passionate and committed people I know."
In discussing her contribution to HSD’s overarching goals related to racial equity, Panlasigui stresses the importance of building a functional support system. "Building a net that works is one way I believe we are contributing to HSD’s goal related to racial equity," she told Seattle Human Services Department.
