Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Day
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Recognize January 22, 2026, as Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Day.
Report
Issue:
Whether to recognize January 22, 2026 as Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Day.
Staff Contact:
Melissa McKee, Assistant to City Council, 360.753.8443
Presenter(s):
Representative from Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network
Background and Analysis:
Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Day is hosted by the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN), a multi-lingual, multicultural coalition and network of more than 400 immigrant leaders, allies, and immigrant serving organizations, that supports and builds power for immigrants and refugees across Washington State through direct services, education, organizing, policy advocacy, and funding. They are a queer and trans immigrant-led nonprofit building a strong, connected, immigrant-led justice movement to dismantle oppressive systems and ensure a life of abundance for all immigrants.
This day brings hundreds of organizations and individuals to Olympia to advocate for pro-immigrant policies to support all Washington residents.
Climate Analysis:
This is not expected to impact carbon emissions.
Equity Analysis:
Immigrant and refugee communities continue to face systemic barriers to accessing government resources and benefits, limiting opportunities for full participation and belonging. In a climate of heightened anti-immigrant and anti-refugee rhetoric and policy changes, it is important to affirm the City’s commitment to fostering inclusion, strengthening community networks, and amplifying the voices of immigrants and refugees. Supporting community-led organizing and allyship reflects and intersectional approach to equity and helps dismantle systems of oppression and helps create a community where every person can thrive and belong.
Financial Impact:
No financial impact.
Attachments:
Proclamation