OLYMPIA – Today, in a lunchtime ceremony, Rep. Eric Pettigrew was given the Legislator of the Year Award by the Washington Council of Police and Sheriffs.
In response to the award, Rep. Pettigrew said, “I am honored to be recognized by those in our community who go above and beyond to serve and protect. As a representative of communities of color, I look forward to continuing this partnership and to strengthen the lines of communication and understanding between the public and law enforcement.”
The Legislator of the Year award is given to one member in each caucus who has gone above and beyond in his or her support and willingness to work with police and sheriffs. Rep. Pettigrew, who maintains an open-door policy, was chosen for his readiness to always listen and negotiate with law enforcement on a wide variety of issues.
“Tensions between police and the public have exploded in recent months. We need to look away from violence and towards an open dialogue. We must be willing to ask tough questions that demand honest answers from one another. We must be willing to work together – the safety of our all our children depends on it. This is how we rebuild trust in our communities; this is how we restore justice.”
