Over 13,700 signatures to raise the minimum wage and protect renters show that our initiatives are both popular and urgently important.

The next step is for City Council to vote, choosing whether to adopt the measures into law or wait to let voters choose on the ballot this fall. Either way, we hope the City Council takes a supportive stance, which may only happen if they hear a chorus of encouragement.

City Council represents us. They need to hear how important these policies are to their constituents.

Here is what you can do:

• Attend City Council Meetings. We need you to show up July 10th (and possibly again on July 24th).
• Make public comment. Amplify the campaign's message by giving public testimony.

Steps to take:

1. Fill out this form to confirm your attendance.

2. Register to give public testimony. While you can show up in support without giving public comment, using your voice is powerful and we will support you in giving confident and impactful testimony.

3. Start working on what unique stories, perspective, or legitimacy you can contribute through public testimony or emails to City Council. Make sure to:

• Keep it positive. Your testimony should make City Council feel excited about supporting our initiatives.
• Make use of our FAQ. The problem of low-wages and out-of-control housing costs, as well as corrections to the myths about our proposed solutions (which are already working in other PNW cities!), are detailed on our website.
• Use your strengths. If you have a personal experience of extreme rent hikes, share that. If you are an educator who sees the impact of these issues on students and families, share that. If you are a professional economist who knows the literature on the benefits of minimum wage, share that!
• Be ready to work as a team. Community First Whatcom is coordinating turnout and public testimony to make sure our message is clear and powerful.

Thank you for making your voice heard!