Yes We Can
The opening of the Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side this week is more than a milestone—it is a memory made tangible, a rekindling of a movement that once changed the course of history. When the campus opened to the public on June 19, 2026, it was designed not just as a museum, but as a living, breathing space for community, civic engagement, and possibility. Standing before a crowd at the dedication, Barack Obama reminded the nation that democracy is “precious” and requires each of us to take part in its defense and renewal.
For many, the Center reawakens the feeling of his early grassroots days—the phone calls, the door knocking, the sense that ordinary people coming together could do something extraordinary. It recalls a time when millions believed deeply in hope and change, when communities organized not out of fear, but out of possibility. That same spirit is alive today in local groups like Indivisible WA-8 and volunteers who continue to show up, speak out, and build something better, together. As we so often emphasize; sustained, collective action remains one of the most powerful tools for pushing back against authoritarianism and strengthening democracy from the ground up.
Opening on Juneteenth, in a space filled with pride, unity, and reflection, the Obama Presidential Center reminds us that progress is never guaranteed—but it is always possible. Even in a difficult and divided moment, it offers a clear, peaceful path forward: stay engaged, stay connected, and keep believing that democracy can be shaped by those willing to fight for it together. The hope that once carried a movement to historic change has not disappeared—it lives on in every person who chooses to act, and in every community that refuses to give up.
So with that in mind, here are some important actions you can take this week to be part of our democracy.
Tell the Issaquah City Council to Vote No!
On the Confirmation of Stephen Mylett as New IPD Police Chief
Monday, June 29th, 2026
During last week’s Issaquah City Council meeting on Monday June 15th, Mayor Mullet announced the appointment of Stephen Mylett as Police Chief. Issaquah community members are concerned about this choice.
Chief Mylett’s confirmation vote is scheduled for NEXT MONDAY June 29th; the City Council must approve his appointment to become the new Police Chief.
Given his problematic past, we are encouraging the City Council to vote no for Mylett as IPD’s new Police Chief; Issaquah residents deserve better.
Issaquah/Sammamish Sign Wavings
Happy Summer! Now that the sun is out we’d like to highlight some local area protests and sign wavings held each week by Indivisible WA-8 and friends of WA-8.
Sammamish Stands Up
Mondays, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Near Safeway Sammamish
228th Ave NE & NE 8th St, Sammamish, WA 98074, USA
Banners Over Issaquah
Tuesday, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
At the Overpass
17th Avenue Northwest & 12th Avenue Northwest, Issaquah, WA 98027
Register here for reminders and updates
Concerned Voters Sign Waving
Friday, 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
The Issaquah Library
10 W Sunset Way, Issaquah, WA 98027, USA
You can also check out the WA-8 events calendar for more info and additional Puget Sound events. See something missing or something we should add? Please email indivisiblewa8@gmail.com and provide the name of the event, when it is, what time, and a registration link or contact for the event. Thanks!
Whistle Kit Party – Issaquah Library
Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Issaquah Library, 10 W Sunset Way, Issaquah, WA 98027, USA
Join us to put together whistle kits to support our neighbors. Each kit will have a know-your-rights red cards in English and Spanish, an explanation for the kit, and a whistle to help people draw attention to themselves if they see something they’re concerned about.
