East King County Welcoming Week

East King County Welcoming Week

SEPTEMBER 10-20, 2026

This year is the 11th year that East King County cities have participated in the International Annual Welcoming Week celebration started in 2012 by Welcoming America. The annual campaign connects neighbors of all backgrounds through activities and events that foster a mutual understanding between immigrants and non-immigrants, and build a deeper sense of belonging for all. This year’s theme is Stories We Share: The Courage to Connect. Local events will be posted on this page in August.

Individuals and groups can organize events in honor of Welcoming Week. Welcoming America provides an extensive toolkit with many resources for hosting events.

Welcoming Week Giving: learn about – and donate to – nonprofits in East King County that support neighbors impacted by expansive immigration enforcement.

WELCOMING WEEK CALENDAR BELOW – More events at area YMCA’s.

Ongoing Work

Safe Haven

Welcoming Week activities are part of broader work happening in East King County to support immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. Check out Safe Haven to connect with immigrant leaders and organizations. Join monthly meetings and calls to action.

Join

Proclamation

Since 2016 Eastside cities have issued a joint Welcoming Week proclamation with shared commitments to welcoming and inclusion. Visit your City Council’s website in September to find out when they’re reading the proclamation. Here’s a copy of 2025’s:

2025

Cross-Cultural Connections

Connect with local individuals & groups supporting cross-cultural experiences. Thank you to the City of Bellevue for the directory formed as part of their Cross-Cultural Center without Walls effort. Please learn more about local resources and support their work.

Learn More