Political Participation

The Seattle Senior Men's Group does not actively participate in politics as a group at the present time simply because that is not a core function of the group.

However, individual members are active in local, national and world politics.

World Affairs Roundtable

Some men participate in a group called the World Affairs Roundtable.  This is a monthly group in which members teach each other about global events. Attendees choose subjects to research before meeting and then give five-minute presentations on their chosen subjects, followed by time for questions and discussion with the group. For more information:  moc.liamg@xatnocydutslabolg.

Environment & Climate Change

Several members are quite concerned about our environmental issues and climate change. We are considering a micro-group that would focus on discussing this vital topic.  Are you interested in this? Let us know and we'll keep working on developing a subgroup that includes your interests.

Local Politics

Are you concerned about a particular issue or problem in our local community, city, county or state?

If you wish to become more politically active, here are a couple of possible sources for getting started:

The Seattle Department of Neighborhoods has a Ways to Participate site that you can check out. It explains how to give public comment, how to enroll in the People's Academy for Community Engagement, or join the Seattle Arts Leadership Team.  Of particular importance is membership in over 70 city boards and commissions. Members influence decisions affecting the city by providing advice and feedback on matters including human services, land use, bicycles, civil rights, and other issues. We think the city would certainly benefit from your advice and experience.

Greenwood Men's Group Politics

Nearly all those in the Seattle Senior men's group are also members of the Greenwood Men's Group.  Thus, either group is influenced by the local political climate, whether it is funding, attitudes or what-have-you. 

It is incumbent upon every man in our group to be aware of the political climate within the Greenwood Senior Center, the Phinney Neighborhood Association, the Greenwood community, the city of Seattle, and King County. We live in a complex web of interacting agencies and interest groups.

To an extent, the Greenwood Men's Group is dependent on a positive and productive relationship with various stakeholders in our community. As an example, there is a paid facilitator who supports the functions of this group, and who is funded by King County. 

At the same time, both groups are a valid part of our community and we do what we can to strengthen and improve it.

However, neither group is well known in our community and city. Few are aware of the good work these groups do, especially in improving the social aspects of our community.

Thus it's important that both groups keep all stakeholders informed of their activities and encourage stakeholders to support what they are striving to do. Call it "politics" or what you will. There is a need for each of us to speak up for our interests.

Phinney Neighborhood Center Board of Directors

The Phinney Neighborhood Center (PNA) in Seattle manages the Greenwood Senior Center. The Greenwood Men's Group is affiliated with these organizations whereas the Seattle Senior Men's Group is not.  A good way for either group to become involved with the PNA is to apply for open positions on the PNA Board of Directors. 

Many members of the these groups have extensive business and organizational skills and experience that would prove valuable to the PNA's success.  

Greenwood Senior Center (GSC) Annual Survey

An excellent way for you to support the GSC is to complete their annual survey, which is usually available in late July. If you are a subscriber to their newsletter, you will be notified.  This  survey helps them to complete their funding requirements for the year.

How to Influence State Politics

Do you have a strong interest in a particular bill or issue before the Washington state legislature? But you don't want to spend the time and effort to go down to Olympia to make your voice heard?

There is a solution for that. You can remotely state your position to a legislative committee from the comfort of your own home.

Click here to watch a video on how to do this. In this example, individuals are remotely stating their position to support bills that affect Seattle public schools.

It can be helpful to follow an advocacy group for a cause you are interested in. They can help keep you apprised of the best times and ways to act on measures which interest you.

A bill is a proposed law. You can find a list of bills here.

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The mission of SeattleSeniorMen.com is to provide a supportive environment where men from diverse backgrounds can foster camaraderie, develop friendships, share wisdom, enrich one another's lives -- and contribute to all Seattle communities, including Greenwood, Ballard, Crown Hill, Fremont, Green Lake, Greenwood, Licton Springs, Loyal Heights, Phinney Ridge, Ravenna, Sunset Hill, Wallingford, Wedgwood, Whittier Heights and beyond.