Getting an abortion in Spokane, Washington is legal - but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. While our state protects the right to choose, people still face real challenges when trying to get the care they need, especially if they’re coming from nearby states like Idaho where abortion is mostly banned.

Why Abortion Access is Crucial

Access to abortion is fundamentally about bodily autonomy, health, and dignity. The ability to make decisions about your own body is a basic right. When people can’t get the abortion care they need, it can affect their health, their finances, and their future. No one should be forced to carry a pregnancy they’re not ready for or one that could put their health at risk.

For many people, the hardest part isn’t just making the decision - it’s figuring out how to make it happen. With out-of-state abortions having risen in the state of Washington since 2022, some have to hide their plans from unsupportive families. Others worry about missing work or losing their job. There’s the stress of finding childcare, paying for gas, or not having a safe person to talk to.

No one makes these choices without thinking about their whole situation. Including how much money they have, where they live, who supports them, and how safe they feel. And for those who already face discrimination or live paycheck to paycheck, the obstacles can be much more overwhelming.

The Guttmacher Institute mentions that this impacts marginalized communities the hardest. People of color, LGBTQ+ folks, immigrants, and people with low incomes already deal with unfair treatment in healthcare. When abortion gets harder to access, they’re often the ones who suffer the most. For these groups, the cost, distance, and stress involved can make abortion feel completely out of reach.

Abortion isn’t just about politics, it’s about basic healthcare and human dignity. In Spokane, we have strong local resources, but we need to keep supporting them so everyone has the chance to get the care they deserve, no matter where they’re from or what they can afford.

Where People Can Go for Help

Consider supporting these organizations or sharing their information with someone who may need it.

• Planned Parenthood in Spokane offers abortion services along with other reproductive healthcare. They’ve received big donations recently to help more people get care.
• Northwest Abortion Access Fund (NWAAF) helps pay for abortion procedures, travel, and lodging for people across the region, including those coming from out of state.

For more information on this topic, including strategies for promoting equity in healthcare, please refer to reputable sources such as the American Psychological Association's resources on healthcare disparities.

Abortion access is not only a healthcare issue — it's a matter of equity. Thank you for showing up today to learn and reflect on how we can build a more just and supportive community for all.

If you have...

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5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	15 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO sharing the difficulty of receiving abortion care.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE about the attacks on the bodily autonomy of disabled people.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE spotlighting the historical struggle of Black women for reproductive autonomy.

Hair is more than just something on our heads, it is tied to who we are. For a lot of people, hair reflects their culture, beliefs, and identity. Some folks can style their hair however they want without thinking twice. But others face judgment, pressure, or even discrimination just for wearing their natural hair or traditional styles.

Hair and Identity

Hair can mean a lot in different cultures. In many African communities, styles like braids, twists, and locks have been around for centuries, displaying your background or status. The National Library of Medicine mentions that through slavery, Black people were required to cover their hair or adopt grooming practices that emulated White/Eurocentric beauty standards. Today, more people are embracing natural hair, but bias still exists.

• In Indigenous cultures, long hair is often seen as sacred and a way to stay connected to one’s roots. In the past, children in residential schools were forced to cut their hair as part of efforts to erase their culture. Now, many proudly wear their hair long again.
• For Sikhs, not cutting their hair is part of their faith. They often wear turbans as a sign of respect for that belief. But in some places, people don’t understand this and treat them unfairly.
• Braids are also meaningful in many Latin American and Indigenous communities, with different styles passed down through generations. Still, many people from these cultures feel pressure to straighten their hair to fit in at work or school.
• In East Asian countries, long, straight hair has been a common beauty ideal. But in places like Japan and South Korea, schools and jobs have had strict rules about hair color and style, even forcing students to prove their natural hair isn’t dyed.

Hair Discrimination

Sadly, people still get judged or punished because of their hair. Black students have been suspended for wearing locs or Afros. Indigenous kids have been told to cut their long hair. Sikh men have been pressured to take off their turbans.

Often, what’s seen as “professional” is based on white, Eurocentric beauty standards. Natural curls, braids, and other cultural hairstyles are sometimes labeled as “messy” or “unprofessional,” which can impact someone’s job or education.

In 2015, actress Zendaya arrived at the 2015 Academy Awards with her hair flowing in dreadlocks. A host of E!’s commented that she looked like she “smelled like patchouli oil or weed". Zendaya responded to this by sharing, “it made me think, how could I always have a lasting impact on what people saw and associated with people of color?” This led to broader conversations surrounding discrimination against hairstyles and helped build momentum for the CROWN Act.

Some laws, like the CROWN Act, are trying to change this by banning hair discrimination, though many places still have rules that are not inclusive to all.

Hair as Power

For many, hair is also a form of resistance. Choosing to wear natural curls, braids, or uncut hair can be a powerful way to say, “This is who I am.” It’s a way to stand up to unfair beauty standards and reclaim cultural pride.

Everyone Deserves Hair Freedom

In the end, your hair should be your choice. Whether it’s straight or curly, dyed or natural, braided, long, short, or shaved - it should be respected. Accepting different hair types and styles helps build a more inclusive and fair world for everyone.

If you have...

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5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	10 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE from the University of Maine’s Rising Tide Center that visually walks you through the difference between equity and equality.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE about how women who wear head coverings face the disproportionate impact of Islamophobia.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO highlighting the story of Black hair.

Why Entrepreneurship Matters

Entrepreneurs help keep the economy moving, states USAFACTS. They create jobs, offer new products and services, and shake up the way things have always been done. Big companies like Apple and small local businesses alike all started with just one idea.

Starting your own business can also give you freedom - especially if traditional jobs haven’t worked out. For example, many immigrants, people of color, or people with disabilities use entrepreneurship as a way to succeed on their own terms.

Women in Business

More and more women are starting their own businesses, but they often face extra challenges. For example, they don’t get as much funding as men do, and they’re more likely to have to balance work and family, as the Kauffman Foundation shares.

Still, women are making big moves in areas like tech, fashion, food, and health. There are now more resources like grants, mentors, and investor groups that support women entrepreneurs.

Looking Ahead

Thanks to the internet and social media, it’s now easier than ever to start a business. You can sell products online, promote your brand on platforms like TikTok or Instagram, and reach people all over the world.

Today, many entrepreneurs also care about doing good like helping the environment, promoting diversity, or giving back to the community. It’s proof that you can build a business that’s both successful and meaningful.

Starting a business is more than just a way to make money, it’s a chance to make your mark. While it comes with challenges, it also offers freedom, creativity, and the possibility of success.

For women, people of color, and others who’ve faced obstacles in the workplace, entrepreneurship can be a powerful path to independence and impact. With the right tools and support, anyone with a great idea can take that leap.

Spokane entrepreneurship opportunities:

• SIMBA - offers direct support, and advocacy for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and consumers.
• Inland Northwest Business Alliance (INBA) - supporting LGBTQ+ and allied businesses across Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.
• SCORE Spokane - offers resources and help to new businesses.
• My Spokane City website offers a list of opportunities.
• Spokane Community College (SCC) offers a course on Entrepreneurship.
• StartUp Spokane calendar - connects entrepreneurs with the community.

If you have...

5 Minutes	and	5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE that shares how several Spokane-based nonprofits have created free online directories.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE sharing how Latino small-businesses have thrived in the PNW.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE of the Spokane Workforce Council investing in BIPOC-owned small businesses for lasting economic impact.

The Second Amendment guarantees Americans the right to own guns, but when it comes to gun violence, especially in minority communities, the picture becomes more complicated. While the amendment is intended to allow individuals to protect themselves, gun violence impacts minority groups, particularly Black, Indigenous, and Latino communities, at higher rates than white Americans. These communities are more likely to experience gun-related homicides and injuries, making gun violence a pressing issue for them.

Disarming Minorities

The tension between the Second Amendment and its impact on minority communities has deep historical roots. After the Civil War, Southern states passed laws known as Black Codes, which restricted the rights of Black people, including their right to own firearms. Even after Black Codes were gone, new laws during the Jim Crow era kept making it difficult for Black people to legally own guns. This kept the pattern going of taking rights away from marginalized communities. The Brennan Center for Justice explains that gun laws haven’t just been about safety, they’ve also been used to control who gets to feel safe and free. Their report shows how these laws can impact civil rights and who really holds power in our society.

This history reveals how gun laws have often been used as a tool of oppression, limiting the rights of minority groups to protect themselves. While the Second Amendment is supposed to apply to everyone equally, it hasn't always been interpreted or enforced in ways that are fair to all Americans.

The Impact of Gun Violence on Minorities

Fast forward to today, and gun violence continues to disproportionately affect minority communities. Black Americans, for example, are far more likely to be victims of gun violence than white Americans. In cities like Chicago, Baltimore, and New Orleans, gun-related homicides and injuries are more common in neighborhoods with large Black populations. This trend has been linked to both systemic issues like poverty and lack of access to healthcare, as well as to higher levels of gun ownership in these areas, shares The Violence Policy Center.

While some argue that the Second Amendment should protect everyone's right to bear arms, the reality is that gun violence in marginalized communities is often fueled by the very weapons that people are legally allowed to own. Many people in these communities feel they need guns for protection, but the gun violence that plagues them often creates a vicious cycle of harm. More guns in these areas can lead to more violence, yet there are few resources or alternatives for people looking for safety in these vulnerable neighborhoods.

Gun Law Inequity

When it comes to actually owning and carrying a gun, people of color, especially Black Americans, often face extra hurdles. The ACLU of Florida points out that Black people and other minorities are more likely to be stopped, searched, or even arrested for gun-related reasons, even when they’re legally carrying a firearm. This shows how racism still plays a role in how gun laws are enforced, making it riskier for some people to exercise their rights just because of their race.

At the same time, access to firearms in minority communities is often limited by economic factors. Gun ownership requires money, not just to buy the gun itself but also for training, legal fees, and safety precautions. In neighborhoods already struggling with poverty, this financial burden can prevent people from legally purchasing or owning a gun for self-defense.

Gun Rights and Minority Communities

The Second Amendment promises the right to bear arms, but the way it plays out for different communities is not always equal. For many minority groups, this "right" doesn’t look the same as it does for wealthier, predominantly white communities. The combination of systemic inequalities, racial profiling, and higher rates of gun violence leaves people in these communities with fewer opportunities to exercise their right to self-defense safely and fairly.

Moving Towards Change

Addressing gun violence in minority communities isn't just about stricter gun control laws, it's about tackling the larger systemic issues that contribute to gun violence, like poverty, lack of mental health resources, and unequal access to opportunities. It’s crucial to reform how gun laws are enforced, ensuring that minorities aren’t disproportionately targeted for legal gun ownership. It’s about creating a society where everyone, regardless of race, can protect themselves without fear of being unfairly treated by the system.

While the Second Amendment is meant to protect the right of all Americans to own firearms, it hasn’t always been applied equally, especially for minority communities. Gun violence continues to disproportionately impact these communities, and addressing it requires a balanced approach, one that not only focuses on regulating firearms but also tackles the root causes of gun violence, systemic racism, and unequal access to justice.

If you have...

5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	30 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE of the Spokane City Council approving local gun control	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO  sharing the racist origins of the 2nd Amendment	and	CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST uncovering the racist roots of the 2nd Amendment

A critical issue when discussing suicide is the role that firearms can play in it. Research has shown that guns are the most common method of suicide in the United States. Here are some important findings on this topic:

• Firearm-related suicides:
  Studies have consistently shown that suicides involving firearms are much more likely to result in death compared to attempts using other methods. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 53% of all suicide deaths in the U.S. involve firearms.
• Firearm access on suicide rates:
  Access to firearms is a significant risk factor for suicides. A study published in the American Journal of Public Health showed that states with higher gun ownership rates also have higher suicide rates. The study highlights that the availability of firearms in homes and communities makes it easier for individuals in crisis to impulsively act on suicidal thoughts.
• Suicide and impulsivity:
  Many suicides are impulsive decisions that are made in a moment of intense emotional distress. The presence of a firearm in these situations can turn an impulsive act into a fatal one. The National Library of Medicine shows that individuals contemplating suicide may not always plan their actions long-term. 
• Reducing access to guns to prevent suicide:
  Studies have demonstrated that limiting access to firearms can reduce suicide rates. For example, in countries like Japan and Australia, strict gun laws have been linked to a drastic decrease in firearm suicides.
• Safe gun storage and suicide prevention:
  The practice of safe storage of firearms has also been highlighted as a suicide prevention strategy. The Society for Research in Child Development emphasizes the importance of keeping firearms locked and inaccessible to people at risk.

Why Might Someone Experience Suicidal Thoughts?

There’s no one reason why someone might think about suicide, it can come from many different struggles. Some common factors include:

• Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD
  
• Feeling hopeless, isolated, or like you're a burden
  
• Stress from money problems, school, or work
  
• Experiencing bullying, trauma, or discrimination
  
• Dealing with chronic illness or pain
  
• Losing someone you love

Warning Signs to Watch For

If you or someone you care about is struggling, there are signs to look out for:

• Talking about wanting to die or feeling like a burden
  
• Pulling away from friends, family, or activities
  
• Sudden mood swings or changes in behavior
  
• Giving away personal items or making “final” arrangements
  
• Using more drugs or alcohol
  
• Feeling extremely hopeless or angry
  

Where to Get Help

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, there are support options available locally:

1. Spokane Regional Crisis Line
   
   • Phone: 509-838-4428
     
   • Available 24/7 for immediate support, counseling, and assistance.
     
2. Crisis Text Line
   
   • Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.
     
3. NAMI Spokane (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
   
   • Phone: 509-838-5515
     
   • Offers support for people living with mental health conditions and their families, including educational resources and peer support groups.
     
4. Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth Support)
   
   • Phone: 1-866-488-7386
     
   • Text: START to 678678
     
   • Provides 24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth.
     
5. Veterans Crisis Line
   
   • Phone: Dial 988, then press 1
     
   • Text: 838255
     
   • Available 24/7 for veterans in crisis, with confidential support.

Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling, there’s always someone out there ready to help. You don’t have to go through it alone.

If you have...

5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	10 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE  sharing about Spokane County's high suicide rate.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO  talking about a movement to change the conversation around mental health and firearms.	and	CHECK OUT THIS WEBSITE where Spokane Regional Health District shares suicide prevention efforts.

BONUS: Here is a 3 minutes, student-friendly video that breaks down intersectionality.

Gun violence is a problem that hits certain communities harder than others. In the U.S., Black and Latino neighborhoods are disproportionately affected, with more deaths, injuries, and trauma from guns than other areas. This isn’t just about numbers or news stories, it’s a real problem that’s hurting families and neighborhoods.

Gun Violence as a Health Issue

For many people in communities of color, gun violence isn’t just a crime, it’s a health crisis. Living in areas with high gun violence puts people at risk for mental health issues like PTSD, depression, and anxiety, especially for kids and teens. Imagine being afraid to leave your home or send your child to school because of the constant threat of violence. This kind of fear takes a serious toll on everyone’s well-being.

When violence is frequent, it also becomes harder to trust police, medical systems, or even neighbors. People might not call for help or speak up when something happens because they feel scared or disconnected. This fear only makes it harder to break the cycle of violence.

Why Does This Happen More in Communities of Color?

There’s no simple answer, but there’s a pattern of reasons. It’s tied to long-standing issues like racism, poverty, segregation, and lack of opportunity. Over the years, many of these communities have faced unfair policies and a lack of resources, making them more vulnerable to violence.

It’s not just about the violence itself, it’s also about how hard it is for these communities to recover. Schools might not have the resources they need, mental health services might be lacking, and there are fewer job opportunities. These problems don’t go away overnight, and often, they get passed down through generations.

The Ripple Effect

Gun violence doesn’t just hurt the person who gets shot, it affects everyone around them. A shooting can ripple out and leave lasting effects across families, schools, and the entire neighborhood. Kids can’t concentrate in school, parents live in constant worry, local businesses close etc. These things pile up and make it harder for the community to thrive.

What are Community Solutions to This?

The good news is that people in these communities are already doing a lot to make things better. Local groups, youth programs, and organizations led by people who know the community are doing amazing work to stop violence before it happens. These efforts focus on prevention, like teaching kids about conflict resolution, providing job training, and offering mental health support.

Instead of only relying on police, many of these programs work on healing and supporting the community. They bring people together to figure out what can work best for individuals and create safer spaces.

The voices of people who live in these neighborhoods need to be at the table when decisions are made. They understand the problem better than anyone and often have the best ideas for how to solve it.

Final Thoughts

Gun violence in communities of color is a drastic problem, but it’s not something we have to accept. It’s the result of years of unfair treatment. With the right investments and support, it can change.

We need to listen to the people who are affected the most, push for real changes, and support community-led solutions. By doing this, we can help create safer, healthier neighborhoods for everyone.

Spokane organizations that can help guide you where to start:

Register to attend this FREE Excelsior Wellness Firearm Violence Prevention Conference on May 21st. 

• • Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) - Behavioral Health Resources: Mental health services, including support for those affected by trauma.

  • The Martin Luther King Jr. Family Outreach Center - Community Support & Empowerment: Programs for youth and advocacy in underrepresented Spokane communities.

  • The Peace and Justice Action League of Spokane (PJALS) - Advocacy and Community Engagement: Focuses on social justice, peace, and the root causes of violence.

  • Washington State Department of Health - Gun Violence Prevention Programs: Programs and grants for reducing gun violence across Washington State.

  • Spokane Alliance - community members working in making our shared home a better place to live and thrive.

If you have...

5 Minutes	and	5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE  the WA State Department of Commerce strategies to reduce community firearm violence.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO  explaining how gun violence leaves lasting trauma in communities.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE the major impact of gun violence on Native communities in the United States.

• BONUS 1: Consider reading 'White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism' by Dr. Robin DiAngelo and watching this lecture by DiAngelo at the Seattle Central Library.
• BONUS 2: Take a look at these graphic illustrations of white privilege created by Courtney Ahn in Portland, Oregon.

When we talk about discrimination in transportation, most people think about getting pulled over by police. And while that’s absolutely a serious issue, especially for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and LGBTQ+ folks, it's not the whole story. Discrimination doesn’t only happen in cars, it shows up in plenty of other places too, like airports, sidewalks, bike paths, and even while jogging through a neighborhood. To create truly fair and safe communities, we need to start thinking beyond cars.

Airports

Airports are supposed to be places where people from all walks of life pass through. But for many BIPOC travelers, especially Black, Muslim, and Latino folks, air travel often comes with extra stress - and not just about missing a flight.

People of color are more likely to be "randomly" selected for extra screening at airport security. They might be followed by airport staff, asked additional questions at customs, or treated like they don’t belong in certain lounges or first-class areas. Muslim travelers, in particular, report being unfairly targeted and interrogated because of how they look or what they wear.

Even once on the plane, discrimination can follow. There have been numerous cases where passengers had someone say they feel "uncomfortable" around them - often for reasons tied to race or language. It’s another example of how BIPOC individuals are often seen as threats instead of travelers. It is important to note that the United States of America Department of Transportation has a document for Passengers’ Right to Fly Free from Discrimination. 

Cycling 

Riding a bike seems like a simple, healthy, and eco-friendly way to get around, though even this can come with its own risks depending on who you are.

Black and brown cyclists are more likely to be stopped by police than white riders. Sometimes it’s over small things like not having a light or riding on the sidewalk, but these stops can escalate quickly and dangerously.

There’s also the issue of infrastructure. Bike lanes and safe streets are often missing in lower-income neighborhoods, which are more likely to be home to BIPOC communities. This creates a situation where people are encouraged to bike for health or environmental reasons but aren't given the same safety or support to do so. Some people even face harassment from drivers while riding, simply because of their identity.

Running 

Going for a jog should be a peaceful activity. But even something as simple as running has become a safety issue for people from marginalized groups.

We all remember the story of Ahmaud Arbery, a Black man who was chased and killed while jogging in a neighborhood in Georgia. That tragedy reminded the world that everyday activities aren’t always safe for everyone.

Transgender and LGBTQ+ individuals also face dangers when exercising in public. Some are verbally harassed or threatened just for being themselves, especially if their appearance doesn’t conform to someone else’s expectations. The fear of violence or judgment keeps many people from being active outside - which isn’t fair, and isn’t healthy.

What Can We Do About It?

We can’t solve a problem we don’t talk about, the first step is simply paying attention. Notice who gets followed in airports, who’s missing from your local bike paths, or who seems nervous jogging in your neighborhood. Listen to the experiences of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks who face these challenges. 

We also need to make sure our cities are designed for everyone. That means investing in sidewalks, bike lanes, and public transit in all neighborhoods - not just the wealthy ones. It means making sure laws are applied fairly and that safety measures don’t become tools for racial profiling.

Organizations and advocates around the country are already working on these issues. From groups that promote biking in Black communities to those fighting for better airport policies, there’s real momentum for change. But we all have a role to play, whether that’s speaking about unfair treatment, voting for better policies, or just supporting someone who’s been affected.

Final Thoughts

Mobility should be a right, not a privilege. Everyone deserves to feel safe while moving through their community, whether they’re driving, flying, biking, or just going for a walk. Thinking beyond cars means looking at the bigger picture of how discrimination affects people in every space, and then doing the work to build something better.

Get Involved

• Spokane Reimagined - their mission is freedom to travel safely, efficiently, and comfortably.
• Spokane Regional Transportation Council - check out their Equity Working Group.

If you have...

10 Minutes	and	15 Minutes	and	1 Hour
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE about how streets are becoming more dangerous, particularly for people of color.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO about challenges that wheelchair users face when flying and some possible solutions to make flying more accessible.	and	CHECK OUT THESE STORIES where 14 riders share their experiences being Black in the cycling world.

Racial bias in traffic enforcement is a serious issue that affects many communities. People of color are often stopped by police at higher rates than white drivers, even though traffic violations don't happen any more frequently in those communities. This kind of bias goes beyond just statistics; it impacts people's lives, safety, and trust in the police. It also highlights how ingrained racial bias can show up in everyday interactions with law enforcement.

What is Racial Bias in Traffic Stops?

Racial bias in traffic enforcement refers to the unfair treatment of drivers based on their race or ethnicity. This can happen in several ways:

• Disproportionate Stops: Black and Latino drivers are stopped at higher rates than white drivers, even when they are driving in the same conditions.
  
• More Frequent Searches: People of color are more likely to be searched during traffic stops, even though those searches are less likely to result in finding contraband.
  
• Excessive Use of Force: In some cases, officers use excessive force during or after a traffic stop, especially in situations involving BIPOC drivers.
  

These issues aren’t just about bad individual police officers, they’re part of a larger system of racial bias that exists in many law enforcement practices.

Why Does This Happen?

Racial bias in traffic enforcement is often linked to broader societal issues, including stereotypes and prejudices about certain racial groups. These biases can influence how officers make decisions in the moment, like whether they feel a driver’s behavior is "suspicious" or if they assume someone is more likely to be involved in illegal activity.

These biases are also shaped by historical and systemic racism. For example, communities of color have often been over-policed, leading to an environment where people of color are more likely to be stopped or questioned.

The Impact on Communities of Color

For people of color, the experience of being stopped by police can be stressful, frightening, and humiliating. Constantly being pulled over for minor infractions or no reason at all can lead to a feeling of distrust toward law enforcement and the system as a whole.

This kind of policing also has long-term effects. Racial bias in traffic stops can lead to:

• Mental and Emotional Stress: Constant encounters with law enforcement can cause anxiety, fear, and frustration.
  
• Legal and Financial Consequences: Unfair or unnecessary tickets, fines, and arrests can lead to legal battles and financial burdens.
  
• Strained Community Relationships: Over-policing can create a rift between law enforcement and the communities they are supposed to protect, making it harder for people to turn to police when they need help.
  

What Changes Do We Need?

To address racial bias in traffic enforcement, we need both systemic and cultural change within law enforcement. Here are some ways that could help:

• Bias Training: Officers need to be trained to recognize their own biases and understand how those biases can influence their actions.
  
• More Transparency: Police departments should collect and publish data on traffic stops, including the race of drivers stopped, the reasons for the stops, and the outcomes of those stops. This kind of transparency can help hold officers accountable and expose patterns of bias.
  
• Community Policing: Building trust between police officers and communities of color is crucial. When officers engage with communities outside of enforcement situations and through outreach, local events, and building relationships, there’s a greater chance of reducing tension and bias.
  
• Decriminalizing Minor Offenses: Some argue that many minor infractions (like broken tail lights or expired tags) shouldn’t even be grounds for a traffic stop in the first place, as they disproportionately lead to interactions with people of color. Shifting to less punitive approaches for these kinds of issues could reduce the number of unnecessary traffic stops.
  

What Can We Do?

As individuals, there are also steps we can take to help fight racial bias in traffic enforcement:

• Support Reform Efforts: Advocate for policies that address racial bias in policing and promote fairness in traffic enforcement.
  
• Educate Ourselves and Others: Understanding the issue and talking about it openly is an important part of creating change. We all need to be aware of how racial bias can show up in law enforcement and what we can do to challenge it.
  
• Stand with Affected Communities: Listen to the stories of people who have experienced racial bias in traffic stops. Amplifying their voices and supporting their calls for change is essential.
  

Final Thoughts

Racial bias in traffic enforcement is an issue that affects many communities, especially communities of color. It’s not just about unfair traffic stops, it’s about the larger system of policing and how racial bias impacts people’s lives.

By pushing for systemic changes, increasing transparency, and promoting community engagement, we can begin to address this problem. The goal isn’t just to stop biased traffic stops, it is to create a justice system that treats everyone fairly.

Check Out These Resources

• Eastern District of Washington (EDWA) Civil Rights webpage
• Spokane Community Against Racism (SCAR)
• Reporting Hate Bias

If you have...

10 Minutes	and	15 Minutes	and	45 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE  how the Supreme Court helped create "Driving While Black".	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE  sharing how a WA investigation showed a disproportionate bias.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE about how law enforcement agencies have been accused of targeting Hispanic drivers in traffic stops and identifying them as white on tickets.

• BONUS: If you have 45 minutes, listen to this podcast from Black Lives Matter addressing racial health disparities, particularly the disproportionate effects that COVID19 is having on Black communities.

What Does It Mean to Create Equity?

Creating equity means ensuring that everyone - regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or background - has access to the same opportunities, resources, and rights. It's about leveling the playing field so that all individuals have what they specifically need to thrive.

Equity is different from equality. While equality means giving everyone the same thing, equity means recognizing that people face different challenges and barriers and responding by providing tailored support to meet those unique needs.

Why Does Equity Matter?

Equity matters because everyone starts from a different place. Historical and systemic discrimination - whether based on race, disability, gender identity, or other identities - has created deep inequities in society. Some people benefit from unearned advantages, while others face systemic barriers that affect their education, health, economic stability, and overall quality of life.

Without equity, these injustices persist and deepen. By actively working to create equity, we address these disparities, support historically marginalized groups, and move closer to a society where everyone has a fair and meaningful chance to succeed - whether they are Black, Brown, LGBTQ+, disabled, or from any underrepresented background.

Where Do We Need to Focus Equity Efforts?

There are many areas of life where equity remains an urgent issue. To be truly inclusive, efforts must address the intersecting identities and experiences of people who face multiple forms of marginalization.

Transportation

Equity in transportation means ensuring that everyone has access to safe, affordable, and reliable ways to get where they need to go. Historically, marginalized communities have faced underinvestment, discriminatory planning, and physical barriers that limit mobility and access to jobs, healthcare, and education.

Creating transportation equity involves redesigning systems that prioritize community needs such as accessible infrastructure for people with disabilities, transit routes that serve low-income neighborhoods, affordable fares, and inclusive planning processes that amplify underrepresented voices.

Education

Students of color, LGBTQ+ youth, and students with disabilities often encounter unequal access to quality education, inclusive curriculum, and supportive environments. Equity in education means funding schools equitably, providing mental health and special education resources, implementing anti-bias training for educators, and creating safe, affirming spaces for all identities.

Healthcare

Healthcare inequities disproportionately impact BIPOC communities, disabled individuals, and LGBTQ+ people - particularly transgender individuals. Equity in healthcare means accessible facilities, culturally competent providers, affordable services, and policies that address specific community health needs.

Economic Opportunity

Barriers to good jobs and fair pay often affect disabled individuals, LGBTQ+ workers (especially transgender people), and people of color. Economic equity includes enforcing anti-discrimination laws, supporting inclusive hiring practices, increasing access to job training, and removing physical and systemic barriers to employment.

Housing

Discrimination in housing affects many groups, BIPOC, disabled individuals, and LGBTQ+ people alike. Equity in housing means enforcing fair housing laws, increasing affordable and accessible housing, and ending policies that lead to segregation or displacement.

Criminal Justice

Racial profiling, over-policing, and unjust sentencing disproportionately harm Black and Brown people, while disabled and LGBTQ+ individuals often face violence, neglect, or lack of accommodations within the system. Equity in justice means reforming policing, ensuring fair representation, and protecting vulnerable populations in custody.

How Do We Create Equity?

Policy Change

Laws and policies must address the root causes of inequity - whether it's anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, ableist public infrastructure, or racial disparities in public services. Policy should be inclusive, intersectional, and informed by the voices of affected communities.

Community Engagement

Communities must be at the center of equity efforts. Listening to and empowering those who have historically been excluded, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled people. It is a crucial step to creating solutions that reflect real needs.

Education and Awareness

Raising awareness about how racism, ableism, homophobia, and transphobia show up in everyday life helps combat bias. Inclusive education fosters empathy, encourages allyship, and helps build a society that recognizes and respects differences.

Resource Redistribution

Equity means directing resources to where they are most needed. This may include investing in accessible public transportation, funding mental health services for LGBTQ+ youth, or supporting disabled entrepreneurs. Equity isn't charity, it’s liberation.

Our Shared Responsibility

Creating equity isn't just the job of governments or nonprofits - it is on all of us. Whether you're advocating for inclusive policies, volunteering, donating to equity-focused causes, or challenging bias in your own life, your actions matter.

It’s also essential to examine our own privileges - whether they stem from race, ability, gender, or other factors - and use that awareness to uplift others. By amplifying marginalized voices and standing in solidarity with those who face injustice, we can each help build a more equitable world for everyone.

Stay Up To Date

• Spokane City
• Spokane Transit Authority

If you have...

5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	20 Minutes
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CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE  sharing the signing of California Transit Safety Legislation sponsored by Stop AAPI Hate.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO  on the legacy of racism in transit.	and	CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE explaining why the pedestrian dignity movement should be your next focus.

• BONUS: Watch the documentary '13th', available on Netflix, to learn about the 13th amendment and how mass incarceration of communities of color can appropriately be referred to as a form of modern day slavery. 

Over the past nine days, we’ve looked at a range of important issues affecting people’s rights, identities, and the inequalities they face. We started by talking about abortion access and the challenges many communities face in getting the care they need.

Next, we discussed the cultural significance of hair and the discrimination that Black people often experience, and also looked at the obstacles entrepreneurs of color face when starting businesses. We also examined how race plays a role in gun ownership laws and the protections under the Second Amendment.

We took a hard look at mental health and suicide, especially in marginalized communities, and how gun violence disproportionately affects people of color. We also talked about transportation, focusing on the need for fairer systems that work for everyone, and how racial bias shows up in traffic stops and enforcement.

Finally, we ended by exploring how we can create more equity in areas like healthcare, education, and the economy, and what we can do to break down the barriers that keep people from having equal opportunities.

These conversations have made it clear that we need real solutions. By raising awareness, pushing for policy changes, and supporting marginalized communities, we can help create a more fair and just society for everyone.