Stay informed about social issues news and updates in Spokane, WA.
Spokane City Council voted 5-2 to affirm the Keep Washington Working Act, emphasizing support for the immigrant and refugee communities. Council members highlighted the importance of creating a safe environment where all individuals can access essential services without fear of discrimination or deportation.
Spokane City Council voted on February 11, 2025, to support the immigrant and refugee communities by affirming the Keep Washington Working Act and passing an ordinance to enhance language access. These measures aim to promote inclusivity and advance the recruitment of bilingual and multilingual applicants in city services. The decisions reflect the council's commitment to fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
The City of Spokane, in collaboration with key local organizations, is launching additional scattered site facilities aimed at assisting individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative focuses on tailored services to meet the diverse needs of the unhoused community, including specialized support for families and those in recovery. Mayor Lisa Brown emphasizes the importance of addressing homelessness through customized care to promote stability and permanent housing.
The Spokane Regional Continuum of Care is set to conduct its annual Point-In-Time Count from January 22 to January 29, 2025, to gather data on the unhoused population in Spokane County. This nationwide initiative aims to identify and better serve individuals and families experiencing homelessness, with collected data sent to HUD and the Washington State Department of Commerce. The initiative is crucial for securing funding and informing local policy on homelessness.
Spokane City encourages community participation in various events celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, highlighting specific activities scheduled in the area. The city emphasizes the significance of this day as a national day of service, with opportunities for volunteering. Solid waste collection will continue on the normal schedule despite the holiday.
The article highlights the advocacy of Sam Martinez's parents, who are pushing for anti-hazing legislation after their son's tragic death during a fraternity hazing event at Washington State University in 2019. Their efforts have led to the passage of the Stop Campus Hazing Act, which aims to prevent hazing incidents in U.S. universities by mandating disclosure of such incidents and implementing educational programs.
A new data dashboard has been launched in Spokane to enhance community understanding of the local homelessness system, promoting transparency and informed engagement.
Local agencies in Spokane have launched a new data dashboard to enhance understanding of homelessness. This tool provides insights into key metrics, helping stakeholders track progress and identify gaps in the system. Mayor Lisa Brown emphasized its importance for transparency and accountability in addressing homelessness challenges.
The U.S. Department of Labor has proposed phasing out the subminimum wage program for disabled workers, a move supported by Washington lawmakers Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Patty Murray. This change aims to eliminate discriminatory wage practices and promote equitable employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
The Spokane Regional Continuum of Care is organizing the annual Point-in-Time Count from January 21-29, 2025, to evaluate the local unhoused population. Volunteers are needed to help survey individuals and families experiencing homelessness, with collected data aiding local and federal entities in addressing homelessness effectively. Interested individuals can sign up to volunteer through the provided link.