To the Editor:
Your story on the race for King County Executive, “Dow vs. Phillips” (issue 31, July 25–31) was uneven.
In fairness, it should have included Larry Phillips’ actual record of support for the API community. It’s also important to know who has endorsed him [which the story did not do].
The reason we believe Larry Phillips should be the King County Executive is that he’s funded our projects, hired our people, and supports our community events.
I know for a fact that when other government entities were reluctant to fund the Wing Luke Asian Museum renovation, Larry and Ron Sims immediately pledged more than $1.3 million from King County. Larry successfully advocated for another million for ACRS, and supported $300,000 for the Filipino Community Center.
He believes in affirmative action, an issue close to my heart. In response to I-200, he sponsored legislation to assure a racially and ethnically diverse workforce.
He has actually hired Asians and not just promised to do so in the future. Mari Eng and Gregg Hirakawa have worked for him, and he currently has persons of color and bilingual speakers on his staff.
When he was the chief of staff for a previous county executive, he made recommendations that resulted in the appointment of Paul Tanaka, Manny Lee, Bruce Miyahara, Karlene Sakamoto, and Dave Okimoto to high-level positions.
He has supported the appointment of Asians to office which includes Judge Mary Yu, Judge Marianne Spearman, Al Sugiyama, Lloyd Hara, Bruce Harrell, and Cindi Ryu.
His attendance at events sponsored by community organizations surpasses mine.
He has earned our support by past practices, not promises. The primary election is critical. I’m presenting this information so your readers can make an informed choice.
— Dolores Sibonga, former Seattle City Councilmember