LYNNWOOD, Wash., August 17, 2021 – Mayor Nicola Smith hired Douglas Raiford to serve as the City’s first Race and Social Justice Coordinator. According to the press release, Mayor Smith advocated the need for a dedicated staff member 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 is originally 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.
Douglas Raiford comes to the City of Lynnwood from Cascadia College where he worked with international students and in the Office of Equity and Inclusion.
Content Source: City of Lynnwood Press Release
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
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