Thread by @GirmayZahilay

When discussing the harsh economic conditions in our state, we often and correctly point to our regressive tax code as a persistent cause of inequity. But in addition to our taxes, we also need to give more air time to I-200 and the ban on race/gender conscious affirmative action

I-200, & its implementing Executive Order 98-01, have had devastating impacts on women & communities of color, especially Black Washingtonians. In the 2 decades since taking effect, these laws have funnelled $billions out of these groups and slashed many educational opportunities

Some have estimated that, prior to I-200, state agencies and higher education institutions spent around 10% of their contracting and procurement dollars with certified minority and woman-owned businesses. In the I-200 and 98-01 world, that rate has plummeted to an average of 3%.

This steep decline in economic opportunity at the state level is also felt locally. Earlier this year, the King County Auditor’s Office released a report entitled “Contracting Inequities Persist in Race-Neutral Environment.” Review the sad findings below:

kingcounty.gov/depts/auditor/…

These inequities are why I’m introducing a motion today that seeks to restore race and gender conscious practices in Washington and King County. I will summarize in the tweets below what this motion does, but you can find the full language on pg. 323 here:
aqua.kingcounty.gov/council/agenda…

“Motion 2021-0391” asks @GovInslee to rescind Executive Order 98-01, the order implementing I-200 at the state level, and it also holds up a mirror to our own King County government, and documents our commitment to advancing contracting equity in King County.

The @KCCouncil should:

✅ Reestablish a minority and women business enterprises office in the county
✅ Set measurable countywide goals for spending w/ WMBE contractors
✅ Advance the recommendations in the county auditor report
✅ Support KC Exec’s Order Pro-equity Contracting

If this Motion passes out of the Committee of the Whole today, it will go to Full Council next Tuesday Oct. 26 at 1pm for final passage. You can provide public comment on this topic that afternoon at 1-253-215-8782, Meeting ID 937 5868 5838 with the Passcode 232591.

I-200 took away many of our tools for advancing racial and economic justice. Our region’s economy has boomed since this law took effect, but not everyone has felt this prosperity. Let’s pass this motion and continue our work to make sure everyone in King county can thrive.