Once again, MOCC members stand united in condemning dangerous and hateful rhetoric from anyone, including elected officials, community leaders, and public figures.
Washington State is proudly home to a large Somali American population, they are hardworking community members who contribute to our state’s success, as political leaders, entrepreneurs, attorneys, healthcare providers, teachers, and other essential workers.
As elected members of the Washington State Legislature, we stand committed to our Somali neighbors, amongst many other immigrant and refugee communities that are being targeted here in Washington state. They deserve our respect and protection.
That’s why we passed the Keep Washington Working Act, it’s why last year we ensured that people could use sick leave for immigration proceedings to protect their income and employment. This is why we’re also looking at legislation in 2026 that would further protect people in Washington state, giving employees notice when their employer is being audited for worker eligibility, and preventing Flock cameras from sharing data with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
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