Executive Constantine proclaims June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Pride Month

Acknowledging that King County is a leader in advancing equitable policies and practices based on sexual orientation and gender identity, King County Executive Dow Constantine has proclaimed June 2023 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Pride Month.

"I urge everyone to honor the fight against discrimination and the contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people to our County and our society," the Executive said in his proclamation. 

Read the full proclamation here.

Juneteenth an observed County holiday on Monday, June 19

King County government will observe Juneteenth as a paid holiday and most King County offices be closed on Monday, June 19.

King County officially began observing Juneteenth (June 19) as a paid holiday in 2022 for King County employees who are eligible for comprehensive leave benefits.

Due to the nature of county work, some services will continue as normal while others will operate on a reduced schedule. Metro will remain on regular weekday service.

The establishment of Juneteenth as a holiday – in addition to Indigenous Peoples’ Day (second Monday in October) – reflects our work to build a more racially just King County by honoring and strengthening understanding of our history. They are dedicated as days of service and learning, and provide an opportunity for us to deepen our knowledge about our nation’s history, Black and Indigenous heritage and culture, and the many ongoing contributions of Black and Indigenous people in our region. They will also help us sharpen our focus and commitment to undo the institutionalized racist practices and policies that harm Black, Indigenous, and People of Color today.    

There will be ongoing events and opportunities in the leadup to both Juneteenth and Indigenous Peoples’ Day to learn more about their significance to the history and experience of Black and Indigenous people, our nation, and our shared journey going forward.

King County commemorates National Gun Violence Awareness Day, June 2

Cross-posted from Public Health Insider

In honor of National Gun Violence Awareness Day this Friday, June 2, Public Health – Seattle & King County’s Regional Gun Violence program is partnering with community organizations to host gun lockbox giveaway events throughout the county and promote Wear Orange Weekend. The shared goal is to promote gun safety and raise awareness of community organizations working to address gun violence in the region.  

Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the US. Over the past three years, we have seen an uptick in the number of firearm-related injuries and deaths in King County, in places where we all live, play, and learn.

Gun violence has become a growing concern across the United States, and King County is no exception. National Gun Violence Awareness Day is an important reminder to take action and work together to create safe, healthy communities. Everyone deserves to be safe and well. King County is proud to take part in this important movement. Read more.

Juneteenth Family Reunion community celebration with Gifts of Hope

King County employees and families are invited to a Juneteenth Family Reunion hosted by Gifts of Hope. Join the community celebration with music, food, vendors featuring local Black businesses, and a kids play zone. The event also includes a free COVID-19 vaccination and dental clinic, and the Traveling African American Museum.

• Sunday, June 11 from noon to 4:30 p.m. at the Smilow Rainier Vista Boys and Girls Club, 4520 Martin Luther King Jr. Way S. in Seattle

Gifts of Hope is a community-based organization serving youth and families with resources and opportunities to transform lives. King County is proud to partner with Gifts of Hope, a nonprofit focused on rebuilding communities through impactful programs and assistance.

Second Professional Development Scholarship Application Period Ends June 4 

The second and final application period for the 2023 Coalition Labor Agreement’s Professional Development Scholarship Program ends at 11:59 p.m. on June 4, 2023. The Scholarship Program is a benefit offered as part of the 2022 – 2024 Coalition Labor Agreement and is only open to employees represented by one of the unions in the Coalition. 

Award recipients for this period will be notified between July 31 and August 3, 2023. Please check the scholarship website for more important dates and information. 

The Scholarship Program is part of the County’s commitment to Investing in YOU, and is designed to assist eligible employees with their professional development by providing up to $3,000 annually towards obtaining training, certificates, degrees, licenses, and certifications. 

Click here to view the scholarship listing and apply. Questions? Please email us at scholarshipfund@kingcounty.gov.

Balanced You virtual exercise classes return

After a brief hiatus, Balanced You and their partner Vivecorp are excited to bring back the Core Conditioning and Yoga classes! No matter if you want to tone up, get in shape, or learn techniques to relax, these classes taught by certified trainers will help you toward your goals. Classes are free to King County employees. Registration is required. Visit this site to find out more and register.

Seattle Symphony performances discounts

King County employees can now take advantage of a summer series of performances at Seattle Symphony:

• Saint-Saëns Organ Symphony: June 1, 3, and 4. Use promo code BACH23 to receive 15% off.
• Mahler Resurrection: June 22 and 24. Use promo code BACH23 to receive 15% off.
• Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert with the Seattle Symphony: June 30 and July 1 and 2. Use promo code MOVIES to waive all handling fees.

View performance details and purchase tickets at www.seattlesymphony.org/concerttickets.

See all available discounts on the Employee Discount webpage.

Pet of the Week: Kitty

Hi, I'm Kitty, an eight-year-old female Pit Bull mix. I am a large lady so I can't move too fast, but I love to trot around with other dogs! When meeting dogs in a new home I would do best with a slow introduction. I do well with other medium/large breed dogs with a gentle play style.

You can find out more about me and my friends on our website at www.kingcounty.gov/adoptapet. Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) has moved back to walk-in services. Find out more information about our adoption process on our website. If you have more questions, contact RASKC via phone at 206-296-7387 (PETS) or email pets@kingcounty.gov.