We help our newest Americans to take charge of their own destinies by creating opportunities for them to have voice through advocacy and civic engagement. Through advocacy, we can educate and influence policy and legislation as well as increase knowledge of how government works. Citizenship begins with naturalization but continues as we help create a pathway to become involved in community.
ADVOCACY
RISNW educates elected officials and policy makers on needs and issues facing refugees and immigrants. We participate in various advocacy efforts with other groups for collective impact through Asian Pacific Islander Coalition (APIC) and the Tri-County Refugee Planning Advocacy Committee, etc.
Each year since 1997, RISNW mobilizes an average of 150 refugees and immigrants annually (3 buses) to go to Olympia. There they meet their legislators and voice their concerns at the annual Asian Pacific Islander legislative day.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
For the past 3 years, we have organized Get Out to Vote Campaigns targeting refugees and immigrants. This includes organizing ballot parties and other activities to encourage voter registration and voting. We average 400 pledge cards from voters, help obtain replacement ballots and call people to remind them to vote.
EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Through our advocacy and civic engagement activities, we work toward influencing policy and creating programs, services and system changes that are more inclusive, equitable and reflect the diversity of our communities.
To support this work we are hiring an Equity, Inclusion and Community Change Manager. Click here for job description.