EVERETT — A public forum for Everett’s mayoral candidates is planned Monday night. The forum is led by the Casino Road Academy, which has been working closely with immigrants for input.
The questions will focus on the concerns of families living in south Everett, including housing.
The event is set for 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Children’s Village, 14 E. Casino Road. The nonprofit academy provides classes in English, GED preparation and computer skills, as well as early learning programs for the children of students. It is run by a coalition of the YMCA, Edmonds Community College and Seattle Goodwill Industries.
Students in the classes wrote the questions and will ask them. There also will be time for audience inquiries and to chat with the candidates afterward. Spanish-speaking interpreters will be available for those conversations, as well as child care for ages 5 through 12.
Jacob Nanfito teaches English as a second language at the academy. His students are mostly women and Latina, though others come from around the world. Their ages range from 20s to 60s.
The forum provides an opportunity to talk about civic engagement for those who are often marginalized, Nanfito said. He has been working with the students on how they can get involved with politics on the local level.
Speaking up is empowering, he said. It goes along with learning English, finding a job and helping kids with their homework. It’s about becoming part of the community and looking for what needs to be changed.
“It’s a different point of view than what we are accustomed to,” he said.
Longtime Everett Mayor Mayor Ray Stephanson has decided not to run again. The candidates are Cassie Franklin, Shean Nasin, Brian Sullivan and Judy Tuohy.
Two will advance from the Aug. 1 primary to the general election in November.
Rikki King: 425-339-3449; rking@heraldnet.com. Twitter: @rikkiking.
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