Snohomish County Leadership

Statement on Afghanistan

Snohomish County, Wash., August 20, 2021 – “As we have watched the horrible events unfold in Afghanistan the last few weeks, we stand in solidarity with all of those Afghans who worked alongside the United States for the past twenty years and in some cases much longer, particularly those who put their lives on the line by working with the United States Armed Forces. We also offer our support to the activists for human rights, the women who empowered change, the youth who were building a better future for their country, and all those ordinary people who were doing their best to create a democratic Afghanistan. The Taliban may have taken land by force, but the dreams of many Afghans will not be easily conquered.

“Snohomish County has a proud history of being a community that welcomes and supports refugees who resettle here, not only in pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families, but also as an opportunity to exercise their freedoms. Snohomish County is home to community partners and organizations that work to meet the needs of refugees in our community, including Refugee and Immigrant Services Northwest. Lutheran Immigration & Refugee Services, on behalf of the U.S. State Department, is leading the coordination effort to resettle refugees around the country and help provide housing, job placement, food, mentorship, and other much needed assistance. Snohomish County stands ready to welcome Afghan refugees into our community and pledges to work with our local, state, and federal partners to ensure they have the best start possible for their new lives in America.

“We encourage all residents of Snohomish County to welcome Afghan refugees into our community and to volunteer their time and resources to support our new neighbors as they adapt to life in our community.”

Dave Somers, Snohomish County Executive                       Stephanie Wright, Chair, Snohomish County Council

Megan Dunn, Vice Chair, Snohomish County Council       Nate Nehring, Snohomish County Council

Sam Low, Snohomish County Council                                  Jared Mead, Snohomish County Council