Who We Are | Washington State LGBTQ Commission

Background

The Washington State LGBTQ+ Business Resource Group, RAIN (Rainbow Alliance and Inclusion Network), established via Governor’s Directive 16-11, is focused on advising and developing strategies for creating safe, diverse, and inclusive workplaces for our LGBTQ+ employees, allies, and customers.

Mission

RAIN exists to help Washington State create safe and inclusive workplaces where every LGBTQ+ employee can bring their full authentic self to work, enabling them to do their best work every day for the people of Washington. RAIN will provide resources and support to current and future state employees and the collaborators serviced by state agencies.

Purpose

Advise and develop strategies for creating safe, diverse, and inclusive workplaces for our LGBTQ+ employees and customers.
Identify best practices for employers and employees within state public service agencies and institutions.
Work with the Governor’s Policy Office and Office of Financial Management to develop and maintain a statewide Safe Place program for public-facing state offices so customers potentially facing harassment can connect with emergency and related services.

Goals for 2026

Expand inclusive statewide engagement, with emphasis on 2SLGBTQIA+ people of color and rural communities.
Strengthen leadership development through clear roles, mentorship, and skill-building pathways.
Improve organizational structure and role clarity to support sustainable programming.
Deepen community connection through intentional, relationship-centered meetings and events.
Increase state leadership visibility and accountability in supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ employees.
Enhance communication, outreach, and cross-BRG collaboration to broaden impact and representation.

Annual Report

Each year, RAIN publishes an annual report, documenting our achievements from the prior year and making goals for the year to come. See our most recent annual reports:

2024-25 Annual Report [Word]

2023-24 Annual Report [PDF]

2022-23 Annual Report [PDF]

2021-22 Annual Report [PDF]