Sen. Tina Orwall (D-Des Moines) issued the following statement in support of Washington's Somali community: Over the past few weeks, the Somali community, especially those who operate childcare centers in our district, has become a target of harassment and baseless allegations of wrongdoing. I’m deeply saddened by how our Somali neighbors have been treated and made to feel unwelcome and unsafe in their own homes. Our Somali neighbors are valued members of our district who contribute to the beautiful diversity of Washington state. I stand with our Somali community and will defend their right to live with dignity and respect. If you or someone you know in the Somali community has experienced a potential hate crime or bias incident, please call the non-emergency Hate Crimes & Bias Incidents Hotline at 1-855-225-1010 or report it immediately on our attorney general’s website: https://fortress.wa.gov/atg/formhandler/ago/HateCrimeOrBiasIncident.aspx I understand the concerns people have about childcare oversight and accountability for how public funds are spent. I agree that accountability and oversight of public resources ...
Read MoreAbout Sen. Orwall
Tina has represented the 33rd district since 2009 and has led efforts on rape kit reform, suicide prevention, anti-trafficking laws, consumer protections, language access in schools, air quality and other issues critical to South King County.
She was appointed to the Washington State Senate in 2024 after serving 15 years in the House of Representatives. She has worked with all levels of government to help embrace best practices to better serve the community. Her 20 years of experience working in the public mental health system, as well as her expertise in strategic planning in workforce development and affordable housing have established her as a valued legislator and community leader.
Read Sen. Orwall’s full biography here.