More than 1,000 people turned out in Olympia on Thursday, February 26 for Asian Pacific American Legislative Day to rally and bring issues near and dear to the community before Gov. Jay Inslee and state legislators.
The rally, organized by the Asian Pacific Islander Coalition, were joined by representatives of Asian Pacific islander community groups and their clients, including many seniors, students, and disabled residents. Among the groups represented at the event were International Community Health Services (ICHS), Asian Referral and Counseling Services (ACRS), and Chinese Information and Service Center (CISC).
Among the issues presented by the community groups to lawmakers were calls for more support for health care, including a capital request from ICHS Foundation director Ron Chew to support the new Shoreline Medical and Dental Clinic; more support for K-12 and higher education; increased environmental protection; and increased support for case management and senior housing.
Preceding his appearance at the rally, Inslee met with representatives of the community groups, where he highlighted the budget and revenue challenges confronting the legislature. He urged them to work with their state lawmakers to support issues that are important for the API community.
