Resist: 7 Resources to Stay Engaged in Local Issues in WA State
Remember that we have a special election on Tuesday, February 11th! Only a third of Washington state voters typically vote in special elections. It matters.
I’m not sure how to even begin this blog post. In a word, things are crazy right now. You certainly don’t need me to tell you this.
As you know, values are a big part of my business. I often tell clients that my values don’t need to be their values. I just want to be sure that I understand what is important to each client and that I’m able to help her live her values through her clothing, whenever possible.
This is a time when we are all reflecting on our values. Life can be exhausting and now, even more so. That’s why it feels especially important to write this post. Yes, it’s important to take care of yourself and the ones you love. But, it’s also important not to opt out. Do what you can, when you can, and be kind to yourself when you can’t do it all. Above all, be kind to others because just that is an act of resistance.
So many people around me feel overwhelmed and like they don’t know where or how to push back on what feels like an avalanche of injustice and chaos. I do not pretend to have the answers. I can say that engaging in what you can impact really does make a difference. And doing something, even if it may not yield results anytime soon, if at all, can also make a big difference. When we think of the 60’s and 70’s, we often think of the protests against the Vietnam War. They didn’t singularly and immediately end the war. But, they certainly helped keep it top of mind and shift cultural thinking over time. Individuals taking a stand against workplace injustices large and small also helped change workplace culture over the decades. So, whatever your act of resistance, it’s important.
Last summer, we hosted a fundraiser for then gubernatorial candidate, now governor, Bob Ferguson. Later this month, our family will attend Lobby Day in Olympia to meet with state legislators to advocate for funding education. It feels especially important to model these behaviors for our son in the middle of this chaos. Truthfully, I don’t love Lobby Days, but I nudged my family into it because it’s a great lesson for our son. As the national news has become so stressful, I’m grateful for this targeted way to take meaningful action.
One of the places that you absolutely can make an impact is in your local community. It’s easy to find that I’ve consumed national news while local issues pass me by. So, I’ve resolved to increase the percentage of my news consumption that comes from and is devoted to local sources. Here’s a list of some of my favorites right now. I don’t agree with everything I hear or read from these sources, but I do respect their reporting and appreciate the perspectives. I welcome your recommendations as this is by no means a complete list. The important message here is to remember that we are a community and together we can accomplish more.
So, take good care of yourself and the ones you love. And while you’re doing that, take some sort of meaningful action to stand up for what’s right and live your values, whatever they may be.
Resources to Stay an Engaged Member of the Seattle Metro Area
(in no particular order)
It can really feel like you are either in the know regarding local politics or you decidedly aren’t. We all get the same vote, whether or not we are engaged in politics or local government. This is a great way to help the average citizen feel more connected to local politics and policy. I vote you start with this episode focused on the new state laws that will directly impact your life.
I may not always agree with Erica C. Barnett’s take on things. But she clearly has a deep understanding of the issues and there’s MUCH to be learned from her.
Cascade PBS- formerly Crosscut + Cascade PBS
It’s fun and fascinating to see Knute Berger’s reporting on local history as well as the local news in general on this site.
Personally, I just go straight to the local news section. And remember that the instances of corruption increase when there is not a local paper. So subscribing to this, our last remaining newspaper, is an important investment.
This one attempts to have different perspectives on local issues. While they may or may not be wildly different views, depending on the episode, I absolutely learn something every time I listen. It’s also an opportunity to hear from Publicola’s Erica C. Barnett.
Sure, this list is heavy on NPR and more specifically, KUOW shows, but that’s what I’ve found that resonates with me. Feel free to send over your other suggestions:) Booming focuses on our booming city and I appreciate the attempt to connect tech with current issues. It’s not much of a deep dive, but again, it’s helpful to offer a general update on what’s going on and the potential ramifications.
The OG. I’ve been listening to this one since Steve Scher was a host, a hundred years ago. If nothing else, this is a stellar way to get an hour long update of relevant issues in our area. I appreciate the rotating guest commentators and host Bill Radke’s efforts to keep it fun.
And there you have it. Whether you try any of these or the array of other options, connecting with local issues helps us maintain strong communities. Remember to vote this Tuesday, February 11th in the special election. Only about a third of eligible registered voters vote in special elections in our state. It matters.
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