How woke is Sound Transit?

Introduction

Sound Transit, the regional transit authority serving the Puget Sound area in Washington State, has been making waves—though perhaps not just in the ways you might expect from a transportation provider. 

With its significant focus on social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and strong support for LGBTQ+ initiatives, Sound Transit has woven progressive ideals deeply into its organisational fabric. In this review, we’ll explore how Sound Transit’s policies and actions align with—or sometimes stray from—traditional American values.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

The organisation’s financial reports, like the 2023 Financial Plan and Adopted Budget, reveal a clear commitment to funding progressive causes, particularly those linked to social equity and environmental sustainability. For example, they’ve earmarked a good chunk of their budget for community outreach programs specifically targeting underserved populations. 

Prioritisation of DEI Policies

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are part of Sound Transit’s operating philosophy. They’ve even established an Office of Civil Rights, Equity, and Inclusion (CREI) to oversee various initiatives aimed at boosting diversity. 

This approach to DEI Policies goes beyond mere compliance, embedding these values into every facet of our organisational structure and culture. Inclusivity is important, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of hiring the most qualified individuals.

Mandatory Training Sessions

Mandatory training sessions on topics like unconscious bias and critical race theory on Sound Transit are not published. Either they do not exist, or they have not been made public.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

By sponsoring and owning events and initiatives like Pride Place, Pride and Justice, Progress and Pride, and many others, Sound Transit is committed to and involved in LGBTQ+ initiatives. This commitment can be seen in its branding, which features LGBTQ+ symbols. 

This active support and sponsorship of Pride Place and other initiatives aimed at creating safe, inclusive spaces within their workplace.

Marketing and Branding

Sound Transit’s advertising and marketing plan is intertwined with our commitment to social justice. The promotion and running of the business are also designed to reflect and promote these values. However, when a transportation provider leans so heavily into social justice messaging, it risks alienating some riders who want a reliable way to get from place to place without the politics.

Conclusion

Sound Transit has taken a firm stand on progressive causes, from financial contributions to the promotion of DEI and LGBTQ+ initiatives. While these efforts resonate with current social justice movements, they also raise important questions about a public institution’s role in advocating for specific political ideologies. 

For those who value traditional American principles, Sound Transit’s policies might seem too far to the left, potentially compromising its mission to serve the entire community without bias. As Sound Transit continues to push its social justice agenda, it might be worth considering a more balanced approach that takes into account the diverse perspectives of all its riders and stakeholders.