Get To Know Inatai | Policy & Advocacy Priorities
Policy Creates Change
Policy isn’t just paperwork — it’s a tool for shifting power and building a future where communities have the freedom to shape every decision, every system, and every opportunity that affects their lives. Our policy and advocacy priorities are shaped by the Washington communities that we partner with and serve — those who not only know but actively demonstrate that racial justice is essential to achieving equity for all. Whether it’s fighting for equitable distribution of federal and state dollars, defending every vote, or expanding equity and representation in government, this work is a call to reimagine how resources, power, and opportunities are shared. Keep reading to learn about our Policy & Advocacy Priorities.
Demonstrators march during the 2025 Farmworkers Tribunal in Olympia. Photo: Ulysses Curry
EQUITABLE ACCESS TO FEDERAL AND STATE RESOURCES FOR COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT WASHINGTON STATE
Inatai has prioritized equitable distribution of state and federal resources since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, after hearing from leaders and organizations throughout Washington that federal pandemic relief funding was not reaching their communities. Since that time, we continue to hear from these communities that existing political power structures and the lack of access to information and influence are driving the ongoing inequitable distribution of government resources. Accordingly, we will continue to strengthen our strategy over the next two years by advocating for systemic changes to existing funding structures while deepening our relationships with leaders at the state and federal level, philanthropic partners, and other robust networks to help create more equitable and accountable systems of resource distribution.
Protecting Access to Democracy
As people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants, and other communities work toward building a strong, thriving multiracial democracy that’s truly reflective of Washington, they face ongoing resistance from groups opposed to this goal. Using tactics such as vote dilution, voter suppression, censorship, intimidation, violence, and the spreading of disinformation, these forces are intent on the infringement of fundamental rights and ensuring that these communities cannot exercise their political power. These tactics are meant to stop communities from shaping every part of how Washington works, thus inhibiting racial justice and equity in every corner of the state. We will support grassroots organizing, litigation, legislative advocacy, and other power building efforts in communities to protect democracy in Washington.
Participants rally on the steps of the Washington State Capitol Building in Olympia during A&NH/PI 2025 Legislative Advocacy Day. Photo: John Lok
Attendees share a laugh at the Lewis County Dignity Guild 2024 Juneteenth Celebration in Centralia. Photo: Ulysses Curry
Establishing and Increasing Equitable Government Policies and Practices
Inatai has been a key supporter of efforts to reinstate affirmative action in Washington — a policy that was repealed over 25 years ago and has had devastating statewide impacts on racial justice and equity. Despite ongoing and coordinated efforts by opposing groups at the state and federal level to eliminate race-conscious policies to address past and existing racism, we remain committed to reestablishing affirmative action and other similar government-created policies in Washington that increase equity and ensure more reflective leadership and opportunities for people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants, and other communities.
Fueling Community-Led Change
A sign that reads “Otro mundo es posible (Another world is possible)” is raised during the 2025 Farmworkers Tribunal in Olympia. Photo: Uly Curry