Spokane City Council Ignores Human Rights Commission Amid Rising Discrimination Concerns

The Spokane City Council held a legislative meeting on July 28, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the Spokane Human Rights Commission and its ongoing challenges. The meeting highlighted the commission's established role since 1992, which is to advise the council on matters of human rights and discrimination.

A key point raised during the meeting was the council's historical failure to act on the recommendations provided by the Spokane Human Rights Commission. Concerns were voiced regarding the absence of a Spokane Homeless Bill of Rights and ongoing discriminatory practices, particularly against people of color, attributed to existing police policies.

The proposed ordinance discussed during the meeting aimed to expand the duties of the Spokane Human Rights Commission. However, it was noted that this expansion does not mandate the city council to heed the commission's advice, which many attendees identified as a critical disconnect in addressing human rights issues effectively.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among community members regarding the lack of responsiveness from the city council to the commission's recommendations, particularly in light of recent testimonies about discriminatory policing practices.

In conclusion, the Spokane City Council's meeting revealed ongoing tensions between the council and the Spokane Human Rights Commission, emphasizing the need for more proactive engagement with human rights issues in the city. The discussions raised important questions about accountability and the implementation of policies that protect vulnerable populations in Spokane.