The City of Tacoma is seeking volunteers to serve on its Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, with four positions available for individuals interested in contributing to the community. The city council announced the openings yesterday, looking for two members, one alternate, and one youth or young adult under the age of 25 to join the Commission.
This civic body plays an important role in improving engagement with Tacoma's immigrant and refugee communities and collaborating with various partners to address the challenges these groups face. The focus is on promoting positive outcomes and removing barriers to the full integration of immigrant and refugee residents. Each member brings experience or expertise in immigrant-related issues and a commitment to supporting the needs of Tacoma's immigrant and refugee communities. While terms typically last three years, newly appointed volunteers may fill unexpired terms with a shorter commitment.
To ensure the body reflects the city's diversity, the Tacoma City Council is actively encouraging applications from BIPOC individuals, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, seniors, youth, veterans, immigrants, and refugees. This initiative is not simply about meeting diversity quotas, but about fostering anti-racist and equitable representation within the city's municipal structure, both in principle and practice.
To ensure an ethical and transparent operation, the City requires appointed applicants to complete training on the Open Public Meetings Act and Public Records Act. This training is provided by the Washington State Office of the Attorney General and must be completed within 90 days of appointment, a necessary step towards accountability and informed service.
Those interested in applying or seeking more information about the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs can find it on the City of Tacoma's official website.
