Ex-Seahawk Doug Baldwin urges voters to approve I-1000/R88

SEATTLE (Nov. 4, 2019) — Former Seahawk Doug Baldwin, a Super Bowl winner and two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, has announced his personal endorsement and urged voters to approve Initiative 1000 on the ballot as Referendum 88. Baldwin spoke out on issues of racial and social justice during his time with the Seahawks, and since his retirement, he has continued building community and opportunity in his adopted home of Renton and throughout Washington state.

Baldwin is also featured in a new television commercial for the campaign now running on digital and cable media, as well as during the Seahawks game yesterday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

In the ad, Baldwin explains the importance of I-1000:

“We need to create a level playing field for women, veterans, and minorities to get a fair shot at hiring, contracts, and access to education,” said Baldwin. “Change doesn’t happen without action, especially when it’s entrenched in discrimination and disparities. That’s why your vote is essential.”

If approved, I-1000 will restore basic affirmative action rights available in 42 other states, allowing outreach to qualified applicants and contractors, without quotas or preferential treatment.

Baldwin is the latest Washington leader to join the campaign, along with current and former governors of both parties, civil rights groups, unions and businesses, Tribes and communities across the state.

“We are excited to have Doug join our campaign and hope his powerful message reaches voters before the deadline for ballots on Tuesday,” said Cherika Carter, Washington Fairness campaign manager. “Doug Baldwin is a true community leader dedicated to fairness and opportunity. We are grateful for his support.”

Ballots must be mailed by tomorrow — Tuesday, Nov. 5 — or deposited in a ballot drop box by 8 p.m. Tuesday. Visit your county auditor’s website for more information for more information, including how you can still vote if you’ve misplaced your ballot.