Presenter reads villanelle honoring Lacey's diversity and cites Feb. 17 proclamation for Keep Washington Working Act

A presenter read a villanelle praising Lacey’s diversity and referred to a Feb. 17 proclamation related to the Keep Washington Working Act, saying the poem was intended to honor the city’s communal values and welcome newcomers.

The presenter, who did not give a name on the record, explained the villanelle form — a 19-line poem in which the first and third lines repeat — and said they wanted to acknowledge "Lacey being the most diversity in Thurston County" and to promote the proclamation linked to the Keep Washington Working Act. The presenter added, "I am not saying this coming poem is as good as Dylan Thomas's. Honest!" and then read the poem.

Throughout the villanelle the presenter repeated the line "Lacey honors and respects our communal diversity," and recited passages that called on the community to "support our neighbors in their time of adversity" and to welcome "Newcomers from so many other places, you are welcome to stay." The poem names "Latinx roofers, gardeners, clerks, and nurses" as contributors to the city and contrasts that with references to families being sent away in other cities.

The presenter also noted local cultural events — "Our ethnic events celebrate unique foods and artistry" — and closed the reading by asserting that the community "stands for more than just a profitable payday." The reading concluded with the presenter thanking the audience.

The presenter’s statement that Lacey is "the most diversity in Thurston County" was presented as the speaker’s characterization in the reading and is not independently verified in the record. The transcript does not identify the speaker by name or organizational affiliation; the speaker is labeled here as "Presenter" to match the meeting record. No formal action, vote or proclamation text was provided in the transcript.