During a recent Renton City Council meeting, the council honored community member Benita Horn as April 3 was designated as “Benita R. Horn Day.”

In the mayor’s proclamation, Horn was credited for creating opportunities to raise awareness of a variety of cultural experiences through her work with the Mayor’s Inclusion Task Force and the annual Multicultural Festival. Horn also helped create the Renton Equity Commission in 2022, to help further the city’s equity and inclusion goals.

“Benita Horn began our journey to bring awareness to our elected leaders and staff of the importance of recognizing implicit biases, inclusion fundamentals, equitable programs and inclusive access to city services,” the mayor’s proclamation stated.

According to the city, Horn partnered with each city department to create inclusive practices improving human resource practices, communications, community interaction, representation, and other routine aspects of municipal operations.

“Benita guided city staff and the Renton community to navigate matters related to social, economic, and racial justice through her partnerships and facilitation with community leaders, and civic, cultural, and ethnic groups,” the mayor’s proclamation wrote of her work and dedication. “it was quickly realized that every conversation with Benita is met with openness and empathy, and would involve a story from her past experiences, teachings, travels, or childhood to bridge a common ground of lived experience.”

In a statement regarding the proclamation, the city said the equity path Horn paved will continue to guide the city for many years.

“We wish her much success as she ventures on to her new role at the state level. This is not a goodbye, as we know Benita will continue to work her magic in Renton,” the city said in its statement.