Shout out to new members Elizabeth D., Anne G., Shelley B., and Ellie W. And now we’re continuing our series on the people who make what we do possible — our supporting members. ❤️ Next up, from Leschi is Jessica Bhuiyan.

Where in town might people run into you?

Pike Place Market is my absolute favorite spot in town. Each Wednesday, I pick up my Pike Box CSA and some fresh flowers for home. As a Seattle 4 Rotary member and PeaceBuilder, I’m often found at our weekly luncheons and events, and at City Hall each month serving as a City of Seattle Human Rights Commissioner.

What made you decide to become a member of The Evergrey?

I’ve appreciated having the daily newsletter in my inbox each morning, but honestly didn’t think much more of The Evergrey until I attended May’s Setting the Table event. Every detail was inspiring and thought provoking, enlightening, and much needed on many levels. It was the welcoming and comfortable way in which the evening was orchestrated that sticks with me as being extra special.

I immediately left knowing I would become a member and wholeheartedly encourage everyone else to do the same. At a time when there is so much that seems to divide us, gatherings and events, causes and initiatives like The Evergrey are essential to bringing us together again.

What’s something you’re working on — in big ways or small — that you could use help with?

My husband, Rais, and I run a nonprofit organization he founded called World Without Hate. As a survivor of a brutal post 9/11 hate crime, having been shot by a white supremacist on a shooting rampage in Dallas, forgiving his attacker and eventually leading an international campaign to try and save his shooter from death row, Rais had dedicated his life to helping end the cycle of hate and violence through empathy education and storytelling.

Ready to join Jessica in supporting The Evergrey with a membership? Head here to sign up. And thanks for the support. 🙌