OLYMPIA – Rep. Kristine Reeves (D-Federal Way), Chair of the Legislative Black Caucus, released the following statement on accountability and responsibility to communities served by the Community Reinvestment Program and the Covenant Homeownership Program:
“The historic wrongs inflicted upon Black and Brown communities cannot be undone in a single day, or through a single program. But we have a responsibility – both moral and fiscal – to make sure our public investments build a stronger, fairer Washington for everyone.”
“Wherever questions are raised about the use of taxpayer dollars, they must be taken seriously. I fully support a transparent review by the appropriate state entities to ensure that funds are being used responsibly, and that the public’s trust is upheld. Accountability is not optional; it is how we strengthen both our programs and our democracy.”
“The Covenant Homeownership Program and the Community Reinvestment Program were designed to expand opportunity, support small businesses, grow our local economies, and ensure that every family – regardless of race or zip code – has a fair chance to thrive. When these programs succeed, Washington succeeds.”
“As we enter the next legislative session, my colleagues and I will continue to focus on ensuring that these initiatives are managed with integrity, transparency, and measurable results. That’s how we honor our shared responsibility to correct the mistakes of the past while investing wisely in a future that includes us all and serves all Washingtonians.”