The Tacoma City Council is seeking to fill four volunteer positions on the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs. Open roles include two general member positions, one alternate position, and one youth or young adult position for individuals under the age of 25.
The Commission’s purpose is to engage Tacoma’s immigrant and refugee communities, working with community partners and city staff to identify and address barriers that these communities face. Members help develop programs, services, and practices that promote immigrant and refugee access to and participation in Tacoma’s economic, cultural, and civic life.
Established by Tacoma City Council Resolution 40858 in 2021, the Commission includes 13 members and one alternate, with one seat designated for a youth or young adult under 25 years old. Members are recommended by the Community Vitality and Safety Committee and appointed by the City Council. Once appointed, commissioners are tasked with studying issues affecting immigrant and refugee communities and providing written recommendations to policymakers to improve programs and services.
Applicants must demonstrate experience or expertise in immigrant issues and a commitment to advancing equity for all immigrant and refugee communities. In alignment with the City of Tacoma’s commitment to fostering an equitable and anti-racist organization, individuals from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. These groups include BIPOC individuals, LGBTQ+ individuals, individuals with disabilities, seniors, youth, veterans, immigrants, and refugees.
Members serve for three-year terms, with a limit of three consecutive terms, unless they are completing an unexpired term. Appointed members are required to complete training on the Open Public Meetings Act and Public Records Act, provided by the Washington State Office of the Attorney General, within 90 days of their appointment.
Applications must be submitted by December 15, 2024, to the City Clerk’s Office at cityoftacoma.org/cbcapplication. Applicants with questions, requests for alternate formats, or additional submission needs may contact Elizabeth Wing in the City Clerk’s Office at [email protected] or (253) 591-5178.
The City Council encourages applications from community members interested in advancing the mission of the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs and contributing to a more inclusive Tacoma.
