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This Week On PubliCola: June 6, 2026

AI use by SPD, doubling taxes for transit, fare gates at light rail stations, and more. By Erica C. Barnett… The post This Week On PubliCola: June 6, 2026 appeared first on PubliCola.

Seattle Nice: Mayor Wilson Doubles Down on Transit Sales Tax

By Erica C. Barnett On this week’s third (!) edition of Seattle Nice, we have a short but (I think)… The post Seattle Nice: Mayor Wilson Doubles Down on Transit Sales Tax appeared first on PubliCola.

Wilson Caves on Stadium Surveillance, Two More Cops Allege Discrimination as SPD Settles Earlier Claims

1. Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson used unspecified “general but credible threats to safety and security” during the upcoming World Cup games… The post Wilson Caves on Stadium Surveillance, Two More Cops Allege Discrimination as SPD Settles Earlier Claims appeared first on PubliCola.

SPD’s Chief Spokesperson Asked AI for Help with Interview Prep, Rewriting Blog Posts, and More

SPD says the communications director only used AI tools a handful of times, and only “to evaluate their utility” By… The post SPD’s Chief Spokesperson Asked AI for Help with Interview Prep, Rewriting Blog Posts, and More appeared first on PubliCola.

Spectator 2026-05-28

Spectator 2026-06-04

Investigation Found That KCRHA Director Retaliated Against Staffers Who Complained

By Erica C. Barnett An investigation last year found that a “preponderance of the evidence” supports the conclusion that King… The post Investigation Found That KCRHA Director Retaliated Against Staffers Who Complained appeared first on PubliCola.

Seattle Commits To Restoration And Preservation Of Central District Pan-African Crosswalks

The City of Seattle has initiated a restoration project to renew and preserve 11 Pan-African flag crosswalks in the Central District. These landmarks have long served as iconic symbols of Black history, culture, and community presence.

Podcast: Seattle Medium’s Readers’ Choice Awards See Increased Community Engagement

The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards has generated significant community engagement, with nominees and residents actively promoting the campaign. This initiative, established to celebrate impactful businesses, organizations, and leaders, has fostered widespread participation and facilitated the discovery of new regional entities.

Podcast: Washington State Microenterprise Association Strengthens Entrepreneur Network

The Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) addresses critical barriers faced by microenterprises, sole proprietors, and early-stage entrepreneurs in accessing capital and vital resources. The organization strengthens the statewide network supporting small businesses, providing essential training, financing, and business development services. Its flagship initiative, Evergreen BizLink, serves as a free online resource navigator, connecting entrepreneurs with trusted support systems.

Neonatal Testing: A Game-Changer For Black Moms And Babies

Black infants are twice as likely as white infants to be born prematurely and face significantly higher mortality rates before their first birthday. Despite this, many Black parents decline prenatal tests capable of identifying serious health issues months before birth. This reluctance is attributed to medical mistrust, uneven access to care, and widespread misconceptions regarding the purpose of prenatal screening.

At Hampton, Black Clergy Weigh Faith, AI, and Change

The 2026 Hampton University Ministers Conference will convene thousands of pastors, theologians, and lay persons to confront the evolving landscape of the Black church. The agenda prioritizes critical discussions on artificial intelligence, the integration of younger clergy, the expanding influence of women in ministry, and the strategic imperative of maintaining relevance within a rapidly changing cultural context.