05-03-2022 - 05-03 18:26 Tirzah IdahosaCITY OF
Federal Way
Centered on Opportunity
Public Comment - Written
Meeting Type: City Council - Regular Meeting
Meeting Date: May 03, 2022
Name: Tirzah Idahosa
Resident/Business Owner: �✓ Yes ❑ No
Comment Topic: Honoring John & Mary Conna
Written Comment:
My name is Tirzah Idahosa, I live in Federal Way, and I agree with Diversity Commissioner Chair
Trenise Roger.
That the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center is a great visible way to honor the Conna's. This
is the 5th in the nation for diversity. And for all they have done and how they have paved the way for
other African Americans and BIPOC people. The re -naming of the PAEC will speak volumes to support
Federal Way and its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
The Historical Society of Federal Way states that John and Mary Conna were one of Federal Way's
earliest and most influential settlers, John Newington Conna. A central figure in the early history and
development of Washington state, Conna was born into slavery in Texas in 1836.
He started in the 1800s which many are still trying to make a reality today in 2022. True Diversity,
Equity, Inclusion, and Equality not only in Federal Way but the state of Washington. John and Mary
Conna should be honored in a way that African Americans and others can see the representation of
what African Americans have done and are doing to help us move forward in creating a place for all.
He was also a member of the local chapter of the Afro-American League, the predecessor to the
(NAACP)National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
He became the first African -American political appointee in state history when selected as Sergeant at
Arms for the first Washington State Legislature in 1889. While there, he was instrumental in the framing
and passage of the Public Accommodations Act of 1890, which gave all citizens access to public
establishments such as inns, theaters, restaurants, and public conveyance.
We can only imagine what they had to go through, but they did it not just for themselves but for those of
us who came behind them and we owe it to them to continue making progress in diversity, equity, and
inclusion.
So again I agree with Diversity Commissioner Chair Trenise Roger that a place like the Federal Way
Performing Arts & Event Center is a great visible place to honor the Conna's. I disagree with the naming
of Panther trail. I also su[pport the family being considered in this process.
Thank you
Tirzah Idahosa
Received: 0510318:26