WA Senate resolution supports state, B.C. partnership

The Washington state Senate adopted a resolution co-sponsored by Senator Sharon Shewmake (D-Bellingham) that reinforces the state’s strong ties with Canada.

Adopted April 11, Senate Resolution 8641 stated the Senate recognized “immeasurable value of our interconnected relationship with Canada and its profound impact on the people of Washington state.”

The resolution, authored by 20 senators, detailed how the state shared economic, political and cultural ties with B.C. Such examples included personal relationships across the border, the reliance of border town communities on Canadian visitors, and how Peace Arch Park provided a place for loved ones to meet during the pandemic border closure. The resolution also discussed how Canadian neighbors assisted during the November 2021 floods, the nearly $8 billion in exports the state relies on from Canada, and how Point Roberts must rely on the border operating smoothly.

The resolution ended, “Now, therefore, be it resolved, That the Senate of the State of Washington recognize the immeasurable value of our interconnected relationship with Canada and its profound impact on the people of Washington State.”

Blaine mayor Mary Lou Steward said during the Blaine City Council meeting on April 14 that she and the Consulate General of Canada in Seattle attended the resolution reading.