Take Action to Shape a More Inclusive Seattle
In an effort to cultivate a more equitable and inclusive future for Seattle’s diverse residents, the Equitable Development Initiative (EDI) is actively seeking committed community members to join its Advisory Board. Born out of the advocacy of community organizations fighting against displacement and inadequate investment in Seattle’s communities of color, EDI projects aim to empower communities through fostering ownership, resilience, cultural expression, and overall wellbeing, with a special focus on marginalized groups.
Join the Equitable Development Initiative Community Advisory Board
The EDI is extending an invitation to individuals rooted in communities facing a high risk of displacement and who are dedicated to addressing deep and persisting inequities. Prospective members are encouraged to apply and become a crucial part of shaping a more thriving Seattle.
Application and Compensation Information:
- The priority deadline to submit an application is Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., and applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.
- Applications received after the priority deadline will be considered until all positions are filled.
- Compensation Provided: EDI Board members receive a monthly stipend for full participation (two meetings per month totaling 3.5 to 4 hours of time, including preparation) of $300.00
- To apply, please visit the City’s Boards and Commissions website (click on Apply to a Board or Commission).
Serving on the EDI Advisory Board empowers members to advance community ownership, re-root displaced communities, and sustain equitable growth in Seattle. Representing Indigenous, Black, immigrant, LGBTQ+, differently-abled, and other historically marginalized communities, board members help direct funding and resources toward community-driven projects that eliminate displacement pressures and expand opportunities.
Members leverage their expertise and lived experiences to shape equitable development policies, support grant-making that builds neighborhood resilience, and ensure Seattle’s growth reflects the needs and priorities of those most impacted. Through this work, the board fosters long-term stability, cultural preservation, and economic vitality, ensuring that communities have the power to shape their own futures.
Monthly EDI Board Member Duties Include:
- Serve as community liaisons, fostering meaningful collaboration
- Elevate and advocate for the voices and needs of marginalized communities
- Participate in full board and subcommittee meetings
- Craft EDI annual funding criteria and make recommendations for funding awards
- Support the development and implementation of equitable development strategies and policies
- Advance Racial Equity and Social Justice, challenging institutional and systemic racism
- Convene stakeholders to build knowledge and capacity around equitable development goals
Highly Desired Applicants Will Have Experience Representing:
- Seattle’s low-access to opportunity and high-risk for displacement areas
- Neighborhoods that have experienced significant displacement and discriminatory policies or practices
- Involuntary displacement from Seattle
- Experience with equitable development, real estate financing, transactions, or affordable housing
To learn more, please visit our EDI website and explore the EDI Framework and Implementation Plan.
If you have additional questions or wish to email a copy of your application and Statement of Interest directly, email EDIAdvisoryBoard@seattle.gov.
Don’t have capacity to commit to the EDI Advisory Board? Consider applying for the community panel to review EDI project applications for the 2025 RFP. Email Dakota.Murray@Seattle.gov to learn more.
Join EDI in shaping a future where equity and inclusion define Seattle’s community development.