Washington Retail’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Initiative reached another milestone last Friday with the signing of a business cooperation agreement between the Seattle Latino Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce (SLMCC)’s President, Marcos Wanless and Washington Retail.

This virtual signing ceremony and discussion signifies a continuation of a partnership that started in October 2019. WR worked with SLMCC early in the year to conduct a usability test to ensure cultural competency before completing the roll-out of the SAFEME Spanish workplace training tool project. We are also looking forward to another partnership to conduct COVID workplace safety outreach through a contract from Labor & Industries.

A 2019 report from the Center for Policy Analysis and Research revealed the need to grow business and social capital for Hispanic and Black minority businesses. WR and SLMCC’s agreement is in response to this finding. Including different ethnic groups’ voices and perspectives will also further our vision as stewards of Washington’s retail experience.