April 30, 2014

Statement from representatives of the Washington Legislature’s Members of Color Caucus in support of Western Washington University President Bruce Shepard’s call for increased diversity on campus:

“Our state’s higher education system is responsible for educating students to face the challenges of our ever-changing global society. A diverse, inclusive student body helps prepare our future leaders to be productive public citizens in the real world – one comprised of people with different national, racial, religious, and cultural backgrounds.

“Diversity also enhances Washington’s economic competitiveness. Sustaining the state’s prosperity in the 21st century requires us to recognize and utilize the talents and abilities of all our citizens.

“As our state population increases in diversity, our public colleges and universities must increase opportunities for students of all backgrounds.  After all, Western Washington University belongs to the people of Washington – all of us.”

Rep. Lilian Ortiz-Self (Mukilteo)         Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos (Seattle)

Rep. Brady Walkinshaw (Seattle)       Rep. Mia Gregerson (SeaTac)

Rep. Eric Pettigrew (Renton)              Rep. Luis Moscoso (Mountlake Terrace)

Sen. John McCoy (Tulalip)