Julia Reed, a workforce policy expert and advocate for youth and racial justice, has announced that she will seek the open House of Representatives seat in Legislative District 36, representing parts of downtown and NW Seattle. The incumbent, Noel Frame, has indicated she will run for State Senate.
Reed, who grew up in Seattle, began her career in the Obama Administration, working for the State Department before taking a position with the Office of Management and Budget. After returning to Seattle, she served as a policy advisor in the Mayor’s office covering issues as diverse as workforce training, creative economy, and public safety. She now works for a social impact consulting firm assisting businesses, government and non profits on workforce development and diversity. Reed also serves as Chair of the 36th District Democrats
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to build on my record of service in the state legislature, tackling critical issues of housing affordability, helping workers regain a foothold in a changing economy, and demanding action on the climate crisis,” said Reed. “We cannot allow worsening inequities in income, housing, and generational opportunity to continue– undermining the promise and progress we have fought to achieve. I’ll bring new perspectives and experience to tackle issues close to home, always rooted in the core progressive values we share.”
If elected, Reed, the Black and bi-racial daughter of public school educators, will be the first person of color to represent the 36th District. Her father was a longtime teacher and later assistant principal at Seattle’s Cleveland High School and Washington Middle School, her mother an occupational therapist and special education instructor in Shoreline and Edmonds schools.
“My parents taught me the critical value of education, and lifting and mentoring youth to their full potential,” said Reed. “It’s why I have focused so much of my own work on helping create pathways to careers– especially for underrepresented communities– and why I will be a true champion in the legislator for vulnerable young people, from foster kids to those impacted by violence and economic disruption. We must do everything we can to help every young person thrive.”
