As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose vision of justice, equality, and unity still resonates deeply today. His work and teachings continue to inspire movements for change and remind us of the importance of collective action in the fight for equity. This month also reminds us of the ongoing work needed to achieve justice for those who have been left behind. The journey toward a more just society continues, and it's essential to recognize the mutual efforts and voices advocating for positive change across all sectors. Let’s keep advancing to create a world where justice, equity, and opportunity are accessible to everyone.

The environmental justice movement is built on resilience—our ability to push through challenges and keep fighting for change. Dr. King taught us that resilience means turning adversity into movement-building. l. As Dr. King said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” Together, we will rise and build the future our communities deserve.

*Register for our community gathering here!*

Read about DRCC’s 2025 Legislative priorities here!

Listen to our Clean Air Program Manager, Mia, advocating for the Cumulative Health Burden (CURB) Pollution Act with Front & Centered!

DRCC is currently drafting comments

Share your thoughts with:

• DRCC via email: mia@drcc.org

• PSCAA directly email:  publiccomment@pscleanair.gov

Need talking points? We have resources for you

The Duwamish Air Improvement Study for Youth (DAISY) Project

The DAISY Community Health Worker Team was busy this month with several outreach events. You might have seen us at the library, the neighborhood center, or at some local schools! You might have also heard us on the radio providing information on the cumulative impacts that the Duwamish Valley faces from the heavy traffic and emissions due to the following nearby sites: three highways, two airports, multiple industries and other sources that may affect our health.

Our team of Community Health Workers will continue to stay busy through tabling events, video announcements, and other outreach methods so if you have any questions about asthma or DRCC’s work please stop by. If you ever see us, be sure to say hi!

Lower Duwamish Waterway Upper Reach Sediment Cleanup

What to expect during the week of February 3

Cleanup activities will occur in Sediment Management Areas (SMAs) 6, 8, 11B, and C1.  

The Contractor will dredge in an area of SMA 6 where testing showed that some contamination was missed. The Contractor will begin backfilling (placing clean material) in other areas of SMA 6, where dredging of contaminated material has been completed. The Contractor will place clean material in SMAs 8, 11B, and C1 where Enhanced Natural Recovery is the cleanup method. Enhanced Natural Recovery uses a thin layer of clean sandy material to speed up the natural recovery process.  

The final surveys of dredged and backfilled SMAs, 2, 3, and 4 will be evaluated for completeness. See the map of cleanup areas linked below.  

What to expect during the week of February 10

During the week of February 10, cleanup activities will continue in SMA 6. To complete this last area, the work will continue through February 28.  

As we celebrate Black History month this February, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you that Black Excellence is celebrated everyday!

On Saturday January 18th, we gathered all of our DVYC youth for a special youth-led MLK march and celebration in partnership with Seattle Parks & Recreation. Although it was a cold day, the weather was perfect for a trip to Martin Luther King Memorial Park, where we received a special annual sweatshirt to mark the occasion, and had hot cocoa to keep us warm. After spending time enjoying the park and each other's company, we gathered around to listen to stirring speeches from a local youth leader as well as a minister from a nearby church. Afterwards the youth were given signs and we marched from the park to the Rainier Community Center. Along the route we were led in chants to call for unity, justice and peace. It was wonderful to witness the youth raise their voices in collective power.

When we reached the Rainier Community Center we gathered around at tables, played games, listened to great music spun by a live DJ, a local rapper, and enjoyed some of the best food I’ve ever had in my entire life catered by Seattle Soul Kitchen. Check them out whenever you have the chance! There was also a raffle and several of our youth won gift cards and self-care kits! This gathering also recognized the incredible contributions of Carmen Martinez and Ms.Tolson, who have always gone above and beyond to create safe spaces for youth, especially at the South Park Community Center.

We all had a wonderful time and are grateful to our partners at Seattle Parks & Recreation for hosting this inspiring event!

Join us on congratulating our three staff members on a year at DRCC. Thank you Melissa, Mia, and Joseph for the dedication and love you bring to your work for the Duwamish Valley.