Weekly Inslee update

||| FROM THE OFFICE OF GOVERNOR JAY INSLEE |||

Friday is Native American Heritage Day

Friday, Nov. 25 is Native American Heritage Day, and November is Native American Heritage Month. Both occasions are opportunities to reflect on the rich tribal heritage and land history of Washington state.

Free at-home COVID-19 tests available through the end of the year

Washingtonians may order up to 10 free at-home COVID-19 test kits through the “Say Yes, COVID Test” program. Upper respiratory illness season is approaching its peak just as families gather for the holidays. At-home tests may help protect your loved ones, providing results in just a few minutes. Up to 10 kits may be requested in both November and December before the program expires at the end of the year.

First pediatric flu death of season reported

An elementary school-age child in King County died last week from complications from the flu, and at least four adults have died from flu-related illness this season. Upper respiratory illnesses including COVID-19, Influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are spreading in Washington state, and can be dangerous. The state Department of Health urges Washingtonians to stay home when they feel sick, and take caution if symptoms become severe. The state Department of Health also recommends vaccination against COVID-19 and the flu.

Visit knockoutflu.org to learn more about flu prevention.

Prison powwows resume after pandemic pause

Traditional Native powwows have resumed at Washington state prisons after a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The events offer Native individuals opportunities to connect with their ancestors, culture, and history as they rehabilitate. The state Department of Corrections has 22 powwows planned across many of Washington’s correctional facilities.

State programs offer specialized technical assistance to help small businesses

Many small businesses face systemic barriers to success, especially microenterprises owned by women, people of color, low-income, or rural entrepreneurs. Dr. Lisa Brown, director of the state Department of Commerce, recently penned an op-ed for the Seattle Times to describe the agency’s efforts to support these entrepreneurs by localizing small business technical support and improving access to financing.