Tri Cities confronts legacy of sundown laws and racial disenfranchisement in urban development

The Sunnyside Planning Commission held a regular meeting on January 14, 2025, addressing various community issues and historical contexts affecting local development. The discussions highlighted the legacy of systemic disenfranchisement in the region, particularly focusing on economic and racial disparities.

One significant topic was the historical context of urban planning in the Tri-Cities area, specifically referencing past discriminatory practices. A commission member noted that certain systems were established to disenfranchise groups based on economics, race, and religion. This historical backdrop was crucial in understanding current demographic distributions and urban challenges.

The conversation also touched on the differences between Franklin County and the City of Pasco. While Franklin County may not have documented instances of such disenfranchisement, the City of Pasco has a notable history, particularly in its east side, which has been associated with lower demographics and socio-economic challenges. The mention of "sundown laws" from the 1970s, which prohibited people of color from being in certain areas after dark, underscored the long-standing issues of segregation and inequality that have shaped the community.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform for acknowledging these historical injustices while discussing their implications for current planning and development strategies in Sunnyside and surrounding areas. The commission emphasized the importance of addressing these issues to foster a more inclusive and equitable community moving forward.