Bellevue is among 10 U.S. cities this week that won an All-America City Award for 2021 from the National Civic League. The league annually recognizes cities that leverage engagement to build equitable, thriving communities.
Bellevue last received the award in 1955, according to a news release from the City. The National Civic League has honored 500 cities with the award since 1949.
The 2021 award theme was “Building Equitable and Resilient Communities.” Bellevue detailed some of its many strategic initiatives to become a more equitable community and meet profound needs during the pandemic, including the City’s Diversity Advantage Initiative and partnerships with Jubilee REACH in its Groceries for Families program, and the Bellevue Breakfast Rotary Club to fund and build the accessible Inspiration Playground in Downtown Park, the release said.
“Bellevue came together to become a more just and equitable community,” the National Civic League said in a statement. “Bellevue’s development of an accessible playground for children of all abilities, commitment to cultural competency, and ability to meet residents’ needs during the pandemic are just a few of the reasons it is an All-America City.”
Mayor Lynne Robinson said in the release, “We are honored to receive this award on behalf of a city that addresses community needs together, with resilience and equity even in the midst of new and unprecedented challenges. Many of the programs highlighted in our award application were made possible by passionate community partners who share a mutual commitment to the wellbeing and success of all people in Bellevue.”
City Manager Brad Miyake added, “The All-America City honor is a testament to the hard work city staff does every day to make Bellevue such a desirable place to live, work and visit. I also want to thank the community for their support during these challenging times.”
Other All-America City award winners were Carlisle, Pennsylvania.; El Paso, Texas; Evanston, Illinois; Fort Wayne, Indiana; Kansas City, Missouri; Livermore, California; Miramar, Florida; Morrisville, North Carolina; and Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
The National Civic League highlights the 10 cities’ winning programs here.
