Dear Neighbors, 

As we move further into 2025, we’ve now reached policy cutoff in the Legislature—a critical deadline that determines which bills move forward and which do not. This moment marks a shift from introducing new legislation to refining and advancing policies that will have the greatest impact on our communities. 

From extreme weather conditions to the rising cost of living, I know that many families, students, and individuals are struggling to meet their basic needs. Ensuring access to housing, food, and education is critical to the well-being and success of our community, and I am committed to working toward solutions that provide stability and opportunity for all. In this newsletter, I want to highlight some of the resources available to help during these difficult times, as well as share findings from a recent survey on student basic needs insecurity in Washington. Whether you or someone you know could benefit from these resources, I encourage you to read on and share this information with those who may need it.  

I also want to take a moment to thank everyone who has reached out about gun safety—my inbox has thousands of emails in advocacy, and I so appreciate hearing from so many of you on this important email. 

February is Black History Month—a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and leadership of Black trailblazers who have shaped Washington state and our nation. I am so proud to be a part of the largest in the Western U.S.—and I am dedicated to driving policies that advance equity, justice, and opportunity for Black communities. 

This year, Washington’s Legislature has reached a historic milestone—nearly 10% of our lawmakers are Black. As a member of the Legislative Black Caucus, I know firsthand how essential this representation is. When we are in the room and voicing our opinions, people hear us. 

With 14 Black legislators serving this session, our perspectives and lived experiences are shaping policy in ways that better reflect the communities we serve. A more diverse Legislature means more voices advocating for equitable solutions in housing, education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. 

This progress didn’t happen overnight. The increased representation we see today is the result of years of advocacy, candidate recruitment, and community-driven movements demanding change. As we continue this work, we remain committed to fighting for everyday people and ensuring that all Washingtonians—especially those from historically marginalized communities—have a seat at the table. 

Our mission is clear: to dismantle systemic barriers, expand economic opportunity, and build a future where Black Washingtonians can thrive. We fight for meaningful investments in education, economic justice, and protections for working families because true progress requires action, not just words.  

This year’s King County Black History Month theme, African Americans and Labor, prompts residents to acknowledge King County’s long history of Black workers, creators, and business owners and their contributions to building our modern communities, especially the many talented King County employees who help keep our transit system in motion, our facilities in operation, and our water clean.   I encourage you to explore local events and resources that uplift and honor these achievements.  

• King County Library System (KCLS) – Offering virtual and in-person programs on Black history and culture. Visit www.kcls.org for event details. 

Let us take this month as an opportunity to educate ourselves, support Black-owned businesses, and work towards racial justice and equity in our communities.

These challenges impact students’ ability to succeed. As one student shared: 

“Pursuing higher education is challenging enough, but dealing with food insecurity and housing instability makes the journey even tougher.” 

I am committed to advocating for policies and resources that support students in meeting their basic

Education beyond high school is more important than ever, and financial aid can open doors to opportunity. Washington State offers multiple programs, including WA Grant, College Bound, and Passport to Careers. Completing a FAFSA or WASFA is the first step to accessing these resources. 

Where Can You Use Washington State Financial Aid? 

Financial aid is available at over 65 institutions across Washington, including: 

• 34 community and technical colleges 

• 6 public four-year universities 

• 16 independent nonprofit four-year colleges 

• 9 private career schools 

• Northwest Indian College 

Additionally, apprenticeships in eligible programs qualify for financial aid similar to traditional college students. 

🔗 Learn more and apply today: Washington Student Achievement Council 

As we continue our work in Olympia, Takin’ It to the Streets resonates as more than just a classic song—it’s a call to action. From the Civil Rights Movement to today’s fight for economic and racial justice, Black communities have long led the charge for progress. Here in Olympia, our growing Legislative Black Caucus is carrying that legacy forward by advocating for policies that address systemic inequities and uplift all Washingtonians. 

With extreme weather, rising costs of living, and deepening economic challenges, many in our community are struggling to meet their basic needs. Ensuring access to stable housing, food security, and education remains at the forefront of my work. Like the song says, Takin’ It to the Streets is a call to action—a reminder that change starts with those who refuse to be silent in the face of injustice. 

So, as the song says: You don’t know my kind in your world, but soon there will be somebody else speaking for me. Let’s make sure we keep speaking for ourselves, for our communities, and for a future where justice isn’t just an ideal—it’s a reality. 

Thank you for staying engaged and working together to support our students and communities. 

In Service, 

Rep. Debra Entenman