 Our Sundaes Outside is not just for Sundays! Our 3-day event with our series celebrating creativity, the outdoors, and Black Folks!
About this event We're going camping!!! It's going to be a weekend of games, activities, food, and more. Celebrating Black Folks. With support from Washington State Parks Folk & Traditional Arts Program we will host the first Sundaes Outside Campout at Ramblewood Retreat Center at Sequim Bay. Join us and enjoy a weekend outdoors connecting!  Facing the camera from left to right: Lt. Governor, Denny Heck; Former Representative, Jesse Wineberry; and Former Governor, Dan Evans. On August 27 the Washington Equity Now Alliance (WENA), a pro-affirmative action non-profit, organized a reenactment of the signing of Executive Order (EO) 72-07 in the Washington Legislative Building. Former Governor Dan Evans, soon to celebrate his 97th birthday, was on hand to reenact his historic signing of the EO that brought affirmative action to Washington State.
BUILD stands in solidarity in recognizing July 26, 2022 as the 32nd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
National Disability Independence Day commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA.) on July 26, 1990. The ADA prohibits disability discrimination by State and local governments; provides standards for access to places of public accommodation; protects people with disabilities from discrimination in the workplace; and ensures equal access to health care, social services, transportation, and telecommunications. Designed to model the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the purpose of the ADA is to guarantee that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else and serves as a reminder that we all deserve equal dignity, respect, and opportunity.  Below is the reminder of the Office of Equity’s invitation to attend our next Real Talk! and Post Talk! sessions on Wednesday, July 27th. Real Talk! is for all Washington State employees. You and your staff are invited to attend.
The Office of Equity invites you to join us on July 27th from 11:00 -12:00 pm for our Real Talk session, “Who Belongs? Independence for Whom?”, and from 12:00-12:30 pm for our Post Talk, where we will have an interactive discussion on the Real Talk Topic. We invite you to lean in, be curious, and engage in honest dialogue about racial equity, justice, and belonging to co-create a state government system that works for everyone.  Mosaic, Tacoma’s Arts and Culture Festival, returns to Wright Park in Tacoma on July 23 and 24 after a two-year hiatus.
Help kick off the weekend at 11 am on July 23 by joining the Walk of Destiny, then stay for a kaleidoscope of dance, music, art, food and family fun, set under the shady trees of Wright Park. This family-friendly, free event continues its 34-year tradition with a Kid’s Zone, hands-on cultural activities and experiences, two performer stages, as well as numerous arts and crafts, food, and information vendor booths.  IPMA PD Special Extended Seminar – Accessibility MattersThe IPMA is pleased to invite you to a special Extended Professional Development Seminar: Accessibility Matters.
This is an all-day, in-person-only event. A continental breakfast and lunch is included. Learn why accessibility matters and how we can create a more inclusive work environment for people with disabilities. You will:
The following address to Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) employees was reproduced with permission from HCA.  Dear HCA team,
Today, the U.S. Supreme Court has overruled Roe v. Wade, ending constitutional protection for abortion access. This is via a case called Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. We will likely have customers who are fearful or confused about what this ruling means for them and their families. We also may very well see individuals coming to Washington from other states to seek abortion services. It is very important that each of us as HCA employees understands and communicates the facts about coverage for abortion services in Apple Health (Medicaid), Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB), and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs. Abortion remains legal and covered by health care insurance in Washington State. That includes coverage purchased by HCA.
If you don't qualify for Apple Health (because you are a resident of another state) you may qualify for the Northwest Abortion Access fund https://doh.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/sexual-and-reproductive-health/abortion
Finally, I want to acknowledge that this court decision will bring up strong emotions for many of us. For me, as a nurse, I believe access to comprehensive health care services, including abortion care, is a health equity issue and I am grateful abortion remains legal in our state. Some may have personal experiences that bring up emotions today. And for others, there may be religious or other beliefs that guide their reaction. If you need any support navigating this issue, the Employee Assistance Program is available with free and confidential services. As always, I expect we are all kind, compassionate, and professional in any conversations we have on this topic with our coworkers. I hope you have a restful and healthy weekend. Sue Join us on Tuesday July 12th from 9am - 12pm for the 2nd annual BLM Day Event. This virtual event will include Ignite Speakers, Community Leaders, Education, Panel Discussion, and much more! Zoom link Dial by your location: +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma) Meeting ID: 839 4388 5396 Passcode: 709636  “Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory or an acceptance of the way things are. It’s a celebration of progress. It’s an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible—and there is still so much work to do.” — Barack Obama  Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, serves as a day to reflect on our journey to freedom for Black people in America. As Washington State, along with the rest of the United States of America, seeks to celebrate Juneteenth as an official holiday, our community reflects on our history and the significance of Juneteenth in this country. Many Americans are unaware that enslavement of our people did not once the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. It ended two years later in 1865, when more than 2,000 troops arrived in Galveston Bay Texas to enforce the freedom that belonged to black people. The impact of delayed action from a promise that was given and not fulfilled for 2 years is an all too familiar feeling. Post-emancipation, known as Reconstruction was an era consistently references as a period great hope yet struggle, and uncertainty for Black people in America. As the reality of black people being free started to settle in, we saw racism and oppression show up in a new form. Even though black people were no longer enslaved, they were faced with issues of Black Codes and Jim Crow, known as strict laws on how to treat black people. They were put in place to deprive and strip the fundamental rights and economic growth for the Black community. In addition to the corrupt laws in place, Black people were victims of horrendous acts by white supremacy believers, whose sole purpose was to terrorize the newly freed Black people anybody or entity that supported them. America has made progress, where the Black people are concerned but we as whole still suffer from the evil that America was built upon. It is systemic and must be purged. Reflection Juneteenth is not just a moment in American history, where we only celebrate the freedom for black people. It serves as a reminder of resilience and the determination that black people continuously show. We’ve overcome, we’ve endured, we do not break. However, we deserve rest, comfort, and peace. This is a moment in history, that highlights the long journey we have traveled. A moment in history, where our community can revive their hope and strength to build a better future for not only ourselves, but those that come after. So, let us not just a celebrate on Juneteenth, let us be inspired to act and commit to the effort of establishing a world where equality and inclusion does exist. Check out photos, live streams, and news links from Washington State Juneteenth event held on June 16th, 2022. Washington State Juneteenth Celebration Photos - BUILD, Washington State Juneteenth Celebration Livestream- TVW BUILD Facebook Livestream KING 5 News Photos taken by Gary Lott  In 2016, Governor Inslee established Directive 16-11, which created the Rainbow Alliance and Inclusion Network (RAIN), a business resource group. RAIN exists to help Washington State create safe and inclusive workplaces where every LGBTQ+ employee can bring their full authentic self to work, enabling them to do their best work every day for the people of Washington.
Attached [below] is the ceremonial declaration for all to see. For more information on Juneteenth, read the article "History of Juneteenth" or "12 Things.. about Juneteenth" on BUILD's website. Juneteenth Proclamation PDF   Compiled by Shauna James, Washington State Health Care Authority. What is Juneteenth?
 Juneteenth Significance “Juneteenth” (June Nineteenth) commemorates freedom for African Americans, and reminds us of the promises of freedom, equity, and equitable opportunity which are at the core of the American Dream. The historical legacy of Juneteenth is a good mirror of how freedom and justice in our nation has always been “delayed” for Black people. For decades waves of lynching, imprisonment, and Jim Crow laws took root. This resulted in a disproportionate impact of discriminatory policies, disparities, and a lack of economic opportunity and investment. While some progress has been made, considerable barriers still exist towards fuller equity. Thus, the importance of the recognition and observance of Juneteenth to demonstrate our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth (June Nineteenth) 1502: The first known Transatlantic Slave Trade voyage - At least 10 million Black people were forcibly transported from Africa and sold into slavery. January 1, 1863: President Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, but some Confederate states refused to enforce this law. June 19, 1865: General Gordon Granger arrives in Galveston, Texas and announces that more than 250,000 enslaved black people were free through the Emancipation Proclamation). December 1865: The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is passed, freeing all enslaved people & abolishing slavery in the U.S. June 7, 1979: Representative Al Edwards introduces a bill declaring “Juneteenth” a state holiday - Texas was the first state to recognize the observance. June 17, 2021: President Joe Biden establishes Juneteenth, the date commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S, as a federal holiday. Key points of Governor Inslee’s Juneteenth Proclamation In his all-state communication, Governor Jay Inslee said recent events caused him to examine how persistent racism continues to impact people of color in the State of Washington, but worldwide. The proclamation is aimed at recognizing contributions of African Americans to our state and country and as a chance to reflect on progress till to be made to endure equal access and opportunity and for self-improvement and planning for a more equitable future. Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom, acknowledges the resilience and determination that African Americans have shown. Since its origin in 1865 in Galveston, Texas the observance of June 19 (Juneteenth) as the African-American Emancipation Day has spread across the US and worldwide. In his communication about the proclamation, he made a commitment to making Washington a more inclusive state and our workplace an environment where every employee is encouraged to bring their true and authentic selves to work. The proclamation makes Juneteenth a legal holiday. He urged ALL citizens to learn about the celebration and its significance in American History and the heritage of our nation.  The Juneteenth Flag On June 19th you might start seeing another red, white, and blue flag flying over our state. That banner with a star bursting in the middle is the Juneteenth Flag, a symbol of the end of slavery in the United States. The flag was created in 1997 by Ben Haith, founder of the National Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (NJCF). According to Haith the design was a deliberate process. Here’s what each element of the flag represents:
 Save the afternoon of Sunday, June 5, 2:30 to 5 p.m. on your calendars for a hybrid, statewide event on Black well-being! We are inviting Black folks across Washington to gather safely, tune in, and turn up. Be part of building our collective vision for statewide Black well-being, crafted by us and for us.
Add to CalendarRegister to join in person or host a virtual watch party and be entered into a drawing for a $25 DoorDash gift credit!  CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS
The 2022 Statewide DEI Summit Planning Committee needs your help to host a successful event. We know that many employees across the state are passionate about the summit and would like to contribute. We specifically need your help in moderating DEI Summit sessions. As a moderator, you will play an important role in ensuring that the conference is a success by attending various sessions, and helping the presenters and participants have a great experience. Qualifications
June 3-5, BURIEN PRIDE WEEKEND 3RD-5TH
June 4, OLYMPIA PRIDE June 4, NEWPORT PRIDE June 4, ARLINGTON PRIDE June 4, PASCO (TRI-CITIES) June 4, WHATCOM PRIDE June 11, Spokane Pride June 12, MONROE PRIDE June 17, KIRKLAND PRIDE June 18, YAKIMA PRIDE June 18, WENATCHEE PRIDE June 18, PORTLAND PRIDE (18th – 19th) June 18, ANACORTES PRIDE June 20-26, Seattle Pride (20th thru 26th) June 25, PORT TOWNSEND July 9-10, VANCOUVER PRIDE (9TH AND 10TH) July 9, TACOMA PRIDE July 17, BAINBRIDGE PRIDE July 23, KITSAP PRIDE  "There can be no keener revelation of a society's soul than the way in which it treats its children." — Nelson Mandela
BUILD and its community send our deepest condolences and prayers to the families impacted by the horrific tragedy that took place in Texas at Rob Elementary School on May 24th, 2022. The loss of 19 beautiful children and two teachers due to gun violence is a devastating blow for the Uvalde community and our country. The mass school shooting that happened in Texas marks the 27th school shooting to have taken place in the United States so far, based on reports. The grief that families are experiencing right now is truly heartbreaking. Every parent should be at ease when they drop their child off at school, knowing they will get the support they need and return home unharmed.  “On May 25, Minneapolis police officers arrested George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, after a convenience store employee called 911 and told the police that Mr. Floyd had bought cigarettes with a counterfeit $20 bill. Seventeen minutes after the first squad car arrived at the scene, Mr. Floyd was unconscious and pinned beneath three police officers, showing no signs of life.” – New York Times.
Today we reflect on the criminal actions conducted by law enforcement that caused the passing of George Floyd. The excerpt taken from the report highlights the sad, brutal, and all too familiar feeling of black lives being taken in this country. Let us remember that the George Floyd tragedy is not a singular moment in American history, but his death does represent the continuous brazen actions that have led to so many Black lives being taken. Unjust actions that were taken based on the color of their skin.  Running for Co-Chair: Nolan Washington Trooper / Recruiter / Community Liaison Bio: I am Nolan Washington, from Seattle, WA. I grew up in the south end part of Seattle. I went to Kennedy High School and then went on to Washington State University where I also played football and graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice in 2013. I was not expecting to actually be involved in law enforcement, but after seeing many of the things going on with our community and policing, I decided to take matters into my own hands and go into the law enforcement profession; embarking on this journey to bring about change from within. I became a Trooper with Washington State Patrol in 2016, and now also serve as one of the field Recruiters and a Community Liaison for the agency. My job includes recruiting for more State Troopers, as well as other positions within our agency, and also be involved with community events around the state. My areas of recruiting are Pierce, King, Snohomish, and Whatcom counties and I assist with other counties around the state as well. I got into this profession to be a door holder for all under-represented people within the profession and specifically my black brothers and sisters to be able to see themselves in me, and want to join and bring about true change. I look for platforms to challenge, educate, and inspire people to not only talk about changes they would like to see, but BE ABOUT IT! I am a firm believer in not waiting for anyone else for change but to do my part in bringing about the change I would like to see. My motto is to inspire the next. In everything we do, we all can be an inspiration to others. We all have a story, and specifically as black people we know this journey has not been easy for us, but if we can try and remember that whatever we do in life, the real mission is to pave a way for the ones that will come after us. To truly bring about change and make sure that change is continued, means we are inspiring the next. The next generation, the next police officer, the next teacher, the next CEO, whatever! We are looking to leave a legacy that can be carried on for generations to come. I look forward to continue to gather inspiration from the amazing people I have and will meet through BUILD, and hope to challenge and inspire others to join me along the way.  Running for Executive Assistant: Yeni Castaneto
As the incumbent Executive Assistant, I will continue to support the BUILD Leadership team with the critical mission of lifting Black voices and representation in leadership positions. I am committed to diversity and inclusion and fighting to change policies that systematically and structurally exclude BIPOC. In the past year, BUILD has shown me that a collective few have the power to begin change by providing a platform and space for Black voices. I assisted Tyrone in launching our Intersectionality Listening Sessions, which provided a safe space for our members to speak on their lived experiences, truths, and realities. It has been a learning and humbling experience to be a part of BUILD, and I hope to do it another year.  This is the Inaugural year that the state of Washington recognizes Juneteenth as a legal state paid holiday on Monday, June 20, 2022. As Black Folks and allies, we have been celebrating Juneteenth for years. This government recognition is cause for a bigger celebration. Black-Owned Business Excellence (BOBE) in partnership with The Professional Women of Color Network and many other collaborators are cultivating this recognition with a Royal Ball that reclaims Community here in Washington.
 Annual Community Pillar Awards Dinner
Honoring those who have impacted and uplifted the Spokane African American Community*Tickets $25 per person or $185 per table (seats 8) Tickets sales will begin on 5/23/2022. |
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