Stay informed about social issues news and updates in Burien, WA.
Burien will host Welcoming Week 2024 from September 13 to 14, celebrating diversity and community engagement through various events at local parks. The initiative, supported by Welcoming America, aims to foster inclusivity and connection among residents. Notable figures like Adolfo Bailon and Lorraine Chachere will participate, highlighting the importance of this local celebration.
Grace Church is hosting a free event titled "Loss of a Spouse" on September 14, 2024, aimed at providing support for individuals grieving the loss of a loved one. The event, part of the GriefShare program, will include a book, video presentation, and group discussions to aid participants in navigating their grief. Attendees can contact facilitator Debbie Bacon for more information.
Dianna Leppa, a local singer in Burien, organized a community effort to replace stolen Pride Flags after they were taken from Downtown Burien early on June 8, 2024. With support from friends, family, and Burien Mayor Kevin Schilling, they restored around 15 flags, emphasizing the community's commitment to inclusion and celebration. This event highlights the resilience and unity of Burien's citizens in the face of adversity.
The Annual Pride Flag Raising at Burien City Hall is scheduled for June 4, 2024, celebrating LGBTQ pride in the community. City Manager Adolfo Bailon will officiate the event, which aims to foster inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ community. This local event is significant in promoting visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ rights.
The Burien City Council's response to the King County Sheriff's press conference highlights ongoing collaboration efforts to address homelessness in the region. This event emphasizes the importance of partnerships between local authorities and community organizations to tackle pressing social issues.
Anne Langham Whitfield Phillips, a passionate advocate for social justice and environmental causes, passed away on February 15, 2024, after an unexpected accident. Surrounded by family, she was remembered for her unwavering commitment to community activism and her cherished role as a mother and grandmother. Her legacy of kindness and activism continues to inspire her friends and family.
Kennedy Catholic High School (KCHS) expressed its disappointment on December 1, 2023, regarding the lack of consultation from the Burien City Council about a new Pallet Village homeless encampment near the school. The school community, represented by President/Principal Matthew Mohs, emphasizes the importance of involving local stakeholders in decisions that affect them, while also committing to a collaborative approach in addressing homelessness.
The City of Burien condemned the recent theft of its Pride flag, which was stolen from City Hall on June 25, 2023, following similar incidents in downtown Burien. Mayor Sofia Aragon reaffirmed the city's commitment to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community, emphasizing that such acts of hatred are unacceptable. The flags were part of Burien's celebration of Pride Month, honoring LGBTQIA+ visibility and the legacy of the Stonewall uprising.
The Pride Flag will be raised above Burien City Hall on May 17, 2023, marking a significant celebration of LGBTQ community pride and inclusion. This ceremony highlights the city's commitment to diversity and support for LGBTQ rights, fostering a sense of belonging and visibility within the community.
The City of Burien has implemented a new policy banning overnight camping on the Burien Library and City Hall property, enforced by the Burien Condo Association. This decision comes amid ongoing efforts to address homelessness in the area, as city staff and service providers work to find housing solutions for individuals currently living in tents. The city is currently reviewing options to address community concerns regarding this policy.