Lynnwood Hires Race and Social Justice Coordinator

Published on August 17, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lynnwood Hires Race and Social Justice Coordinator
Douglas Raiford is Lynnwood's first RSJ Coordinator

RSJ

LYNNWOOD, WA (August 17, 2021) - Mayor Nicola Smith has hired Douglas Raiford to serve as the City's first Race and Social Justice Coordinator. The goal of this dedicated staff member is to further Lynnwood's commitment to being a safe, welcoming, and equitable community for all.

"For many years we've made great strides at advancing equity in our city," stated Mayor Nicola Smith. "Now is the time to move forward with a dedicated staff member to pull together what's been accomplished already, and move us forward with intentionality so that we can truly become a City that provides equitable services and programs, a city where all community members are welcome, and all belong."

Raiford is a member of the Mayor's Executive Staff and he will work collaboratively with all City Departments, the City's internal equity team, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commission, as well as our partners and community members.

"As a long-time resident, raising my two young boys in Lynnwood, it is an absolute honor to join Lynnwood city government," said Raiford. "I am looking forward to working with partners both inside and beyond city government to break down barriers and increase equity for all. My goal is to open the door and create opportunities for everyone to participate and access services, especially those in underrepresented communities.”

Raiford, who originally hails from Miami, Florida, has a Bachelor's Degree from Barry University in International Advertising and Communications. He has past experience working for the Department of State in Washington, D.C., and has spent the last seven years in Washington working in higher education. Raiford comes to the City of Lynnwood from Cascadia College where he worked with international students and in the Office of Equity and Inclusion.

Contact:

Julie Moore, Public Affairs Officer
jmoore@LynnwoodWA.gov 

 

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