SENATE RESOLUTION
8631
By Senators Saldaña, Hasegawa, and Kauffman
WHEREAS, Dolores Sibonga, born in 1931 on Vashon Island, Washington, has been a trailblazer for Filipino Americans and women of color, dedicating her life to public service, justice, and equity; and
WHEREAS, Dolores Sibonga defied barriers early in her life, becoming the first Filipino American to graduate from the University of Washington's journalism program in 1952 and co-owning The Filipino Forum , a newspaper that amplified the voices and concerns of Asian, Black, immigrant, and Indigenous communities in Seattle; and
WHEREAS, In 1973, Dolores Sibonga made history as the first Filipino American, man or woman, to pass the Washington State bar exam, paving the way for future generations of Filipino American legal professionals; and
WHEREAS, In 1978, Dolores Sibonga became the first woman of color to serve on the Seattle City Council, a position she held for over a decade; and
WHEREAS, Throughout her tenure on the Seattle City Council, Dolores Sibonga was a staunch advocate for labor rights, civil rights, and social justice, introducing key legislation, such as the reparations ordinance for employees fired during World War II due to their Japanese ancestry, and consistently fighting for the well-being of marginalized communities; and
WHEREAS, Dolores Sibonga's service extended beyond her time on the city council, including roles as a public defender, deputy director of the Washington State Human Rights Commission, and mentor to numerous community leaders; and
WHEREAS, Dolores Sibonga remains a catalyst for positive change, still contributing to her community through advisory roles and serving on multiple boards, including the King County Board of Tax Appeals and Equalization; and
WHEREAS, Dolores Sibonga's enduring legacy of courage, perseverance, and dedication to public service continues to inspire generations of activists, community leaders, and public servants;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate recognize and honor Dolores Sibonga for her groundbreaking contributions to the legal profession, public service, and her tireless advocacy for justice and equity; and