Dear friends and neighbors,
Thank you to everyone who joined me on January 17th for a community discussion! As the first Iranian and Middle Eastern woman elected to the legislature, it was meaningful to review the UW study on disparities faced by Middle Eastern and North African immigrants with community. I was also glad to be joined by Rep. Osman Salahuddin (D-Redmond), the only Muslim-American in the House.
I’m proud to have supported funding for this study in the 2023 state budget and am now building on that work with House Bill 1412. This bill establishes the Washington State Commission on Middle Eastern & North African Americans and designates April as Middle Eastern & North African American Heritage Month. Watch my testimony in the State Government & Tribal Relations Committee here.
Rapid Response Hub for Immigrant Communities
Washington has consistently stood as a beacon of hope for immigrants. Thanks to the work of my colleagues in the House Democratic Caucus, we’ve codified critical protections into state law, such as the Keep Washington Working Act, made investments in civil legal aid, expanded healthcare access for undocumented immigrants, and banned for-profit detention centers.
But the fight doesn’t stop there. In response to the growing fears in our communities, the Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs has launched a rapid response hub to support undocumented immigrants. It is filled with vital resources, tools, and information designed to help families navigate these challenging times. We cannot allow fear and exclusion to define our state. Justice and equity demand our voice, action, and commitment.
The Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance
Did you know Washington has an Office of Refugee and Immigrant Assistance (ORIA) within the Economic Services Administration at DSHS? The goal of this office is to assist refugee and immigrants who arrive in Washington state thrive and be successful. Our state consistently ranks in the top 10 resettlement states in the US. And despite the changes happening at the federal level, Washington remains a welcoming state to refugees and immigrants.
The ORIA website has an interactive resource tool to help refugees and immigrants find programs and services they may need. Services range from immigration assistance and naturalization services to employment and training, and more. To access services, one needs to complete an application online through Washington Connection. If it’s easier, folks can always visit a local DSHS Community Service Office for assistance as well. To find your local office, input your zip code, city, or county here.
I was proud to support House Bill 2368 last year. This legislation clarified the role of ORIA and expanded services for immigrants who do not qualify for federal aid. The passage of this bill demonstrates our state’s commitment to inclusivity and support for newcomers seeking to build a new life in the evergreen state.
If you know any community members who may need information on how to plan for changes in federal immigration policies and practices, consider sharing this link from the DSHS with them.
Video Update
In this quick update, I discuss two of my priority bills, HB 1147, aimed at supporting civic engagement for incarcerated and institutionalized individuals in state custody to promote inclusion and rehabilitation; and HB 1218, concerning persons referred for competency evaluation and restoration services. These bills are especially meaningful in our work towards a criminal legal system that prioritizes rehabilitation.
Healthcare Is a Human Right
Thank you for your calls and emails supporting House Bill 1445. I’m proud to sign on as a cosponsor of this important legislation, which will consolidate public health plans under a unified financing system, expand eligibility to all Washington residents, and ensure comprehensive medical coverage.
Healthcare is a fundamental human right, and the Washington Health Trust is a vital step toward a system that puts people over profits. Your messages have highlighted the need to center disability justice and create a healthcare system that works for everyone. I look forward to collaborating with Rep. Parshley to make healthcare accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of our communities.
Please continue to share your thoughts on issues that matter most to you by emailing me. Thank you for staying engaged!
In Service,
Rep. Darya Farivar