FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 11, 2025

Whatcom Racial Equity Commission Announces Strategic Milestones and Community-Focused Initiatives

Bellingham, WA — Less than one year after its official launch, the Whatcom Racial Equity Commission (WREC) has established its internal governance and is rolling out its first suite of initiatives aimed at addressing systemic inequities across Whatcom County.

“Establishing a strong internal structure was only the beginning,” said Miriam Karamoko, Executive Director of WREC. “We’re now turning our focus to building out the strategies and tools that will drive lasting change across systems that impact all of our lives.”

WREC’s upcoming projects include:

  • WREC Policy Agenda – A comprehensive framework to guide equity-driven policy across systems.

  • Incarceration Data Analysis – A partnership with Western Washington University’s Sociology Department to analyze local incarceration data and inform justice reform efforts.

  • Justice Project Follow-Along – A public resource to track developments in the Jail & Behavioral Care Center and encourage community engagement.

  • Learning Agenda 2025 – A countywide reading and discussion series focused on unpacking systemic racism.

  • Racial Equity Matrix – A practical tool for individuals and organizations to assess and improve equity practices.

  • Convening Events – Strategic gatherings to strengthen partnerships across racial equity stakeholders in Whatcom County.

“We’re committed to building with—not for—our communities,” said Karamoko. “These initiatives reflect our belief that racial equity is not a one-time fix, but a collective and ongoing commitment to systemic change.”

About WREC

The Whatcom Racial Equity Commission is a quasi-governmental body created to advance racial equity through community collaboration, policy development, and structural transformation in Whatcom County. WREC brings together government entities, local organizations, and residents to co-create a future where systems work for all.

Media Contact:
Miriam Karamoko
Executive Director, Whatcom Racial Equity Commission
📧 info@whatcomracialequity.org
🌐 www.whatcomracialequity.org
📍 Bellingham, WA