If you’ve attended a Seattle City Council debate or tuned in to hear candidates for statewide office discuss the issues, chances are Seattle CityClub was behind it. Since joining GSBA in 2021, Seattle CityClub has been a key player in boosting civic engagement across the Puget Sound region. Their nonpartisan approach helps bridge divides and keeps our community informed and involved. Their mission aligns closely with our goals at GSBA, making our partnership a perfect fit.
Seattle CityClub stands out for its commitment to bridging the divides that often separate us—whether political, generational, or sectoral. In a time when polarization feels more prevalent than ever, this nonprofit’s work is about bringing people together to talk, listen, and understand one another. They believe that an informed and engaged public is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy, and they’ve built their programming around that belief.
Through a variety of events and initiatives, like the WA State Debate Coalition and Civically Engaged Youth Council (CEYC), Seattle CityClub connects residents with the leaders who shape their daily lives. Their programs draw over 4,000 people in person each year, with tens of thousands more engaging through digital content. Whether it’s a lively debate on housing policy or a forum on public education, Seattle CityClub’s events provide a platform for all voices to be heard.
The WA State Debate Coalition, founded by Seattle CityClub in 2016, is a prime example of this work. By organizing debates that are free and accessible to the public, Seattle CityClub ensures that important conversations reach as many people as possible. These debates, which GSBA has been partnering with them to help run since 2023, offer a rare opportunity for residents to hear directly from candidates about their visions for the future and to hold them accountable for their promises.
We’re excited about the upcoming debates in 2024, which include discussions with candidates for Seattle City Council, Attorney General, and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). These events will take place across various locations and provide a crucial platform for engaging with the issues that matter most. For the full debate schedule and more details, see here. Our continued partnership with Seattle CityClub ensures that these important conversations remain accessible to everyone in our community!
