By Joe Veyera
The King County Civil Rights Commission is seeking residents interested in public service and raising community awareness and involvement in civil rights issues for four open positions on the commission, which advises the County Council and County Executive (Dow Constantine) on matters related to the county’s civil rights programs, along with other civil rights issues.
The commission reviews and reports on the effectiveness of King County’s affirmative action program, non-discrimination enforcement, and minority and women business utilization programs. Commission members also work to both educate and engage members of the community about King County’s Equal and Social Justice program. Current commission projects include affirmative action and equal employment opportunities, county contracting, equity and social justice, community engagement, and the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Essay Contest
One of the four open positions on the commission is for Council District 4, represented by Council Chair Larry Phillips, which includes Ballard and Crown Hill.
Potential candidates should live in the appropriate council district, and have interests and experiences related to the goals of the commission. Residents from diverse ethnic and protected group backgrounds, including people with disabilities, are encouraged to apply, and all committee members are bound by the King County Code of Ethics.
If selected, members are expected to commit eight to 10 hours a month for commission meetings and related work projects. Committee meetings are currently the third Wednesday of every month, from 3 p.m to 5 p.m.
Committee members serve three year terms, and serve without pay.
For more information on the Civil Rights Commission, click here, or contact commission administrator Paula Harris-White at 206-263-2444 or paula.harris-white@kingcounty.gov.