Dear Editor,

 I was proud to run for Congress last year to stand up for my community. I’m so thankful to all of you who supported me with your donations, your time, and your kind words.

 I’m reaching out today because there is another important fight on your ballot this November. Initiative 1000/Referendum 88 is our best chance in two decades to end our state’s regressive ban on affirmative action and restore fairness and opportunity to all Washingtonians.

 As a higher education leader in Spokane, I saw firsthand the benefit that diversity has in our classrooms—from broadening the range of experiences to expanding perspectives, all students benefit from increased diversity. Initiative 1000/Referendum 88 will increase diversity on Washington’s campuses, which will open new opportunities to all of our young people.

 And now, as a state agency leader who works in community and economic development, I also see firsthand why so many of Washington’s business leaders support Initiative 1000/Referendum 88. Without affirmative action, we risk students instead choosing to go to school and enter the labor force in states with affirmative action. Small businesses will also gain from Initiative 1000/Referendum 88 when they are competing for state contracts.

 Approving Initiative 1000/Referendum 88 will be a huge win for our state. Not only does it help to correct centuries of institutional discrimination, it will also be a tremendous boost to our state’s economy.

 But opponents to equality have stepped up their disinformation campaign in recent weeks. After a career in politics, these tactics are nothing new to me. But it means the Washington Fairness Coalition will have to work even harder to set the record straight and get our message out to voters.

 Thank you,

Lisa Brown