The Tacoma City Council is looking for people to join the Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (CIRA). There are currently nine open member positions and one Emerging Leader position available. This is a volunteer opportunity to work with the City of Tacoma.
2025 Commission on Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Annual Retreat.
Top row from left to right: Maricres Valdez Castro, Emmanuella Shaska, Nixon Tenga, Maurice Lekea, Alicia Sands, Lydia Zepeda. Bottom row from left to right: Eunice Ngwasi Kalembo, Hugo Nicolas, Iulia Didkivska Natalie Ghayoumi, Linus Nyaga.
CIRA is made up of 13 members and one alternate, including an Emerging Leader who is under the age of 25. Members typically serve three-year terms, unless they are filling an unexpired term. The city is looking for people who have experience or knowledge related to immigrant and refugee issues—and who are committed to supporting and uplifting all immigrant and refugee communities.
CIRA works alongside community partners to identify needs and create positive outcomes, focusing on shared priorities like safety, housing, health, and fair access to opportunities for all families across the city.
If appointed, you’ll need to complete Open Public Meetings Act and Public Records Act training within 90 days provided by the Washington State Office of the Attorney General.
Applications must be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office by noon on Jan. 26 at tacoma.gov/cbcapplication.