5 Ways To Serve Seattle This MLK Day and Beyond

5 Ways To Serve Seattle This MLK Day and Beyond

By January 16, 2021 Featured No Comments

The Nyhus team is planning to participate in a host of activities this upcoming MLK Day to both honor Dr. King’s legacy and commit to the practice of serving others. This is a chance to check-in individually and identify ways we can give back, learn and encourage others to do the same. Below are some of the ways we are serving our community this Monday, and for many days to come.

VOLUNTEER WITH LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL GROUPS
Remove invasive weeds and ivy, plant new foliage and restore local parks! Taking your personal time to make public spaces enjoyable and accessible for all is a worthy use of time. This work is in-person, requires a mask and is limited to small groups. Register for a volunteer shift with Seattle Green Partnership or EarthCorps on MLK Day or any upcoming available dates.

 

ADVOCATE FOR WHAT YOU BELIEVE IN
With limited in-person volunteer activities, we need to prioritize taking important action from home. Contact your local, state or federal representative or sign a letter urging action regarding racial equity in the community. Share the info with your friends and on your social networks to spread the word!
Use this resource to learn how to contact your representative.

 

CONTINUE TO LEARN VIRTUALLY
Learning about the history of racism in America, the systems that keep it in place and how we can fight it needs to be part of our daily lives. It is always time to listen and discuss–but mostly listen–to stories that tell the truth about racial equality in America. Here are some upcoming events and platforms that will continue to offer workshops and webinars:

Virtual Workshops hosted by MLK Jr. Coalition
Virtual Community Summit with City Year, Seattle & King County
Elliott Bay Book Company’s Virtual Talk with Authors Amber Ruffin and Lacey Lamar

TAKE THE 21-DAY CHALLENGE
Take it a step further. From Dr. Eddie Moore Jr, participate in a 21-day challenge to do at least one thing each day to “further your understanding of power, privilege, supremacy, oppression and equity.” This includes reading articles and books, watching documentaries, movies or TV shows, listening to interviews and podcasts, connecting with family/friends, reflecting on recent learnings, or taking action. Begin today and start tracking your progress.

 

CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY
Donate to local organizations that works solely to advance racial equity, support local youth, or advocate for changes in our community. These entities are doing the work that has a direct impact on Black lives. Make a one-time donation or commit to a recurring donation that supports the longevity of these organizations in Seattle. Here are some ideas of places to donate:

United Way of King County
Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle
City Year Seattle/King County
Black Youth Project
List of Racial Equity, Social Justice and Black-Led Organizations