Our Values
We center people of color, build youth-centered leadership and education, and organize multiracial coalitions to advance Ethnic Studies and racial justice. We pursue systemic change through community power, advocacy, and learning.
Our Vision
A Washington where youth-led, community-rooted Ethnic Studies shapes schools and public life, taught and practiced by anti-racist educators and partners across the state.
Our Mission
We co-create community power to advance Ethnic Studies and racial justice in Washington by:
- Organizing with youth and community to advocate, testify, and lead.
- Building systemic power with educator associations, ESDs, and state bodies.
- Cultivating partnerships with aligned community organizations.
- Providing PD and curriculum support when it advances advocacy goals.
- Protecting the integrity of Ethnic Studies by challenging supremacist pedagogies.
Our Strategies
Advocacy
- Seek out and develop youth pipelines for civic and legislative leadership.
- Sustain relationships with legislators and activists.
- Counter misinformation with youth-centered narratives.
- Train educators, community members, and youth leaders to strengthen advocacy goals.
Collectivism
- Build intentional partnerships with youth-led orgs, families, and community groups.
- Co-host events and campaigns with partners.
- Support the advocacy efforts of aligned organizations.
Praxis
- Annual Feedback Loop cycle that is transparent and shared with community partners and lawmakers.
- Commit to reflection on WAESN identity and leadership practices.
- Invest in internal leadership development and shared learning.