Many immigrants have expressed their fear and concerns about President-Elect Trump’s focus on tougher regulation of undocumented immigrants. Organizations on the Eastside and in Seattle are working together to maintain the integrity and values of our cities and to create a community based not on fear or tension, but on mutual respect and support. Collectively, we are welcoming all into the conversation and providing resources to those who are disadvantaged regardless of their age, background, race, or socioeconomic status.
On Thursday, November 17, many organizations from the Eastside, including the Eastside Legal Assistance Program, Bellevue LifeSpring, SeaMar, LifeWire, City of Bellevue, Jubilee REACH and the Bellevue School District, came together to host a community immigration forum to learn about rights, connect with others, and find answers to the many questions facing the immigrant community in recent times. More than 250 members of the community participated.
The Bellevue police reassured the residents that they would not be asking them for their immigration status and reiterated their commitment to keeping all children and families safe. Police Chief Steve Mylett said, “What’s important here is that the Bellevue Police Department is committed to serving and protecting all residents. We don’t want someone who is the victim of a crime to have any fears about talking to the police because of their immigration status.”
Eastside Pathways recently released an Inclusion Letter, emphasizing our commitment to serving and supporting all our children as well as ensuring racial equity through the community. Youth Eastside Services, Year Up Puget Sound, and Bellevue School District also signed the letter. We, as an organization, truly believe the Eastside will always be a community that works together to best provide for our families and children.
Article written by Kate Chen, a senior at Interlake High School and a social media intern at Eastside Pathways