On Sunday, June 4, the LWV of Bellingham-Whatcom County (B-WC) held their second annual Day Uplifting the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color in Whatcom County. This event provided an opportunity for about 300 Whatcom County residents to celebrate and highlight the many contributions of their Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. It included tabling by BIPOC and allied groups, BIPOC vendors, and a variety of foods, as well as with performances by dancers and singers of all ages. 

Organized by the B-WC Racial Equity and Healthy Democracy Issue Team (co-chaired by Shovia Muchirawehondo & Carol J. Smith), this annual event grew out of Shovia’s master’s fieldwork at Western Washington University, which explored ways in which LWV, as an important organization that promotes policy change for the betterment of society, could work to improve the representation and stability of BIPOC communities in predominantly white areas. Whatcom County is less than 25% BIPOC.  

According to Shovia, policy change is an important tool for promoting equity and inclusion in society. By advocating for policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, organizations like the League of Women Voters can help create a more just and equitable society. However, Shovia argued that policy change isn’t the only tool in our toolbox. By supporting and/or organizing events like this one, our communities can build greater awareness and understanding of the issues faced by BIPOC people and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. 

This is a collective effort that requires the support and engagement of various stakeholders. From community leaders to political representatives, everyone has a role to play in creating a more just and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. While this event was the brainchild of Shovia and organized by the League, it only succeeded through the collaborative efforts of 14 different community organizations, and the support of Bellingham Mayor Seth Fleetwood, Whatcom County Executive Satpal Sidhu, Whatcom Community College’s Vice President for Instruction Barry Robinson, and many other local leaders.

Photos courtesy of Barry Robinson, Whatcom Community College.