DEI commissioners map Welcoming Week logistics, push ambassador outreach and accessibility checks

At its latest meeting, the Mountlake Terrace Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commission reviewed logistics for Welcoming Week and other fall events, debated how to allocate a modest outreach budget, and discussed creating a network of community ambassadors to boost participation among groups underrepresented at city events.

Councilmember Christina Murray reviewed the calendar of upcoming events, including a public plaza opening and a night market on Aug. 30 and an annual city “day of service” on Sept. 14; she asked commissioners to help promote the events and encourage broad participation.

Commissioners and staff discussed practical event logistics — tables, tents, coloring activities for children, translated flyers and social-media posts — and how to use partnerships with the library, schools and local business groups to reach non-English-speaking residents. Staff reported the survey and outreach materials are translated into Spanish and Vietnamese and that tabling at multiple community events is already planned.

Several commissioners argued for a continued focus on events and “receptions” that build relationships and help recruit community ambassadors to support outreach in languages and networks the city cannot reach on its own. Commissioners suggested recruiting parents at schools, faith leaders, business association members and other civic connectors as volunteers who could distribute flyers and explain the project in short, plain-language talking points.

Commissioner Kermit raised accessibility concerns that he said should be formalized into a project checklist. Citing recent construction and parade logistics, Kermit urged the city to add a standing “what if” accessibility review to planning discussions — for example, testing whether people using wheelchairs can navigate a sidewalk detour or whether a crosswalk signal gives enough time to cross for slower walkers. City staff noted the city maintains an ADA transition plan for sidewalks and a staff contact, but commissioners said the plan’s priorities and stronger outreach to people with mobility challenges deserve more attention.

The commission also discussed training and staff-development options. Staff announced a two-day “Undoing Racism” training on Dec. 6–7 and invited commissioners and council members to attend.

Commissioners reviewed the scale of event spending and recommended continuing to invest in hosted events and partnerships while keeping an eye on staffing and volunteer capacity. Practical items for the upcoming Welcoming Week included recruiting volunteers for set-up/removal, deciding which food and refreshments to provide (coffee, cookies, small fruit), distributing posters and flyers in multiple languages, and arranging t-shirts and small giveaway items for children and families.