As the 2020 election approaches, political candidates in southeastern Washington are facing a critical question: how will they address the pressing issues of racial and social justice in their campaigns?Southeastern Washington, which includes cities like Spokane, Yakima, and Walla Walla, is a diverse region with a history of racial tension and inequality. From the displacement of Native American tribes to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, the area has a complex past that continues to impact its present. But as the Black Lives Matter movement gains momentum across the country, voters in southeastern Washington are looking to their political candidates for concrete plans to address systemic racism and social injustice. So how do these candidates plan to tackle these issues?
The Current Political Landscape
Before diving into the plans of individual candidates, it's important to understand the current political landscape in southeastern Washington. The region is predominantly conservative, with Republican candidates often winning local and state elections. However, there has been a recent shift towards more progressive policies and candidates.In 2018, Democrat Lisa Brown came close to unseating Republican Cathy McMorris Rodgers in the race for Washington's 5th Congressional District. And in 2019, Spokane elected its first ever female mayor, Nadine Woodward, who ran as an independent. This shift towards more progressive values is reflected in the platforms of many political candidates in southeastern Washington when it comes to addressing racial and social justice issues.
Education and Criminal Justice Reform
One of the key areas where political candidates are focusing on is education and criminal justice reform. In southeastern Washington, there is a significant racial disparity in school discipline and incarceration rates. Democrat Dave Wilson, who is running for the Washington State Senate in the 16th Legislative District, has made education and criminal justice reform a central part of his campaign. He believes that investing in education and addressing systemic racism in the criminal justice system are crucial steps towards achieving racial and social justice. Republican incumbent Cathy McMorris Rodgers has also acknowledged the need for criminal justice reform, particularly when it comes to addressing the opioid epidemic.She has supported legislation that aims to reduce mandatory minimum sentences for nonviolent drug offenses and increase access to treatment for substance abuse.
Housing and Economic Inequality
Another area of focus for political candidates in southeastern Washington is housing and economic inequality. The region has a high poverty rate, with many communities struggling to afford housing and basic necessities. Democrat Marcus Riccelli, who is running for re-election in the Washington State House of Representatives in the 3rd Legislative District, has proposed policies to address these issues. He supports increasing the minimum wage, investing in affordable housing, and expanding access to healthcare for low-income families. Republican candidate Jenny Graham, who is running against Riccelli, also recognizes the need for affordable housing and economic opportunities. She has proposed policies to incentivize businesses to invest in low-income communities and create more job opportunities.Environmental Justice
In addition to racial and social justice issues, political candidates in southeastern Washington are also addressing environmental justice.The region is home to many Native American tribes who have been disproportionately impacted by environmental degradation and pollution. Democrat Shar Lichty, who is running for Spokane City Council District 2, has made environmental justice a key part of her platform. She supports policies that prioritize clean air and water for all communities, particularly those that have been historically marginalized. Republican incumbent Mike Fagan, who is running against Lichty, has also expressed support for environmental protection. He has advocated for responsible development and conservation efforts to preserve the region's natural resources.
The Importance of Representation
While policies and plans are important, many voters in southeastern Washington are also looking for candidates who represent the diverse communities in the region. This includes electing more women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community to positions of power. Democrat Lori Feagan, who is running for Spokane County Commissioner, believes that representation is crucial in addressing racial and social justice issues.She has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in local government. Republican candidate Al French, who is running against Feagan, has also acknowledged the importance of representation. He has supported initiatives to increase diversity in local government and has pledged to work towards creating a more inclusive community.
