Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commission

Days of Recognition: November 20 is Transgender Day of Remembrance

The International Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) is an annual observance that began in 1999 as a vigil to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998, and is held on November 20th each year to honor and memorialize transgender individuals who have since lost their lives due to acts of anti-transgender violence and injustice faced by transgender people worldwide.

TDoR was established to raise awareness about the pervasive discrimination and violence that transgender individuals experience daily, as well as to highlight the need for social and legal changes that will protect the rights and safety of transgender people. On this day, various events and memorials are organized globally to remember and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives due to transphobia. These events often include candlelight vigils, marches, educational programs, and discussions aimed at promoting understanding and empathy.

Commission Meetings

  • 3-4:30 p.m.
  • Second Tuesday of each month 
  • Council Chambers 
    501 N. Anderson Street
    Ellensburg, WA 98926

The next DEI Commission meeting is set for December 12 at 3 p.m.

Members of the public who wish to participate virtually in this meeting may do so by joining the Zoom meeting. 

Webinar ID: 810 4031 0449
Password: 930282

Public comment will be accepted during the public comment portion of the agenda.

To search agendas or subscribe to agendas, review these instructions.

View the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion page on Be Heard Eburg.

View the 2021-2022 DEI Commission Annual Report. 

Agendas & Minutes

Members

There are nine Diversity, Equity and Inclusion members, all of which must live in Kittitas County (with no more than two residing outside of the City of Ellensburg). The current Commission members are:

  • Mayra Colazo, term expires 5/31/2024
  • Tylene Carnell, term expires 5/31/2024
  • Kandee Cleary, term expires 5/31/2026
  • Amber Hoefer, term expires 5/31/2026
  • Teresa Divine, term expires 5/31/2025
  • Alex Mandujano, term expires 5/31/2025
  • Olene Togiailua, term expires 5/31/2026
  • Phil Backlund, term expires 5/31/2026
  • Nancy Goodloe, City Council Member & Commission Chair

Responsibilities

The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission operates under the authority of Chapter 1.88 of the City Code and is responsible for advising the City Council on diversity, equity and inclusion matters with the mission to support Ellensburg in celebrating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community that welcomes and is supportive to all residents and visitors because doing so enriches each individual’s life and the community’s wellbeing and vitality.