Jean Godden

Jean Godden wrote columns first for the Seattle Post-Intelligencer and late for the Seattle Times. In 2002, she quit to run for City Council where she served for 12 years. Since then she published a book of city stories titled “Citizen Jean.” She is now co-host of The Bridge aired on community station KMGP at 101.1 FM. You can email tips and comments to Jean at jgodden@blarg.net.

Washington’s Disappearing Lawmakers

Losses include a number of veterans whose experience and expertise will be much missed. Equally confounding is the exodus of newer lawmakers of color.

The Last Days of Reproductive Freedom

"I fear that these weeks while we await the issuing of the final Supreme Court decision are the last days of reproductive freedom in America."

All the Difference: How the World’s Fair Changed Seattle 60 Years Ago

Eddie Carlson's idea for a Space Needle wasn't instantly popular. Some scoffed at the notion, likening it to a phone pole in a sombrero or a pylon wearing a top hat.

The Case Against Banning Cars in Pike Place Market

Circulation and access are life blood to the Market's 500 small businesses and to ancillary services like the Health Clinic, Day Care, and Foodbank.

Opening Day: Confessions of a Baseball Novice

Baseball at its heart is a game of numbers and statistics. The game provides ample opportunity to compare one's knowledge and memory with other fans.

Workers United: A Rebirth of Unions?

Gallup Polls show that 60 percent of Americans currently favor unions. That's certainly true in Washington state, which ranks third (after New York and Hawaii) for the percentage of unionized workers – 20.1 percent of state workers, twice nationwide numbers.

Washington Strengthens Abortion Protection, Just as Idaho Weakens Such Laws

Inslee minced no words, proclaiming "if Idaho won't stand up for your rights, I will." The signing came just days after Idaho enacted legislation to allow lawsuits by "potential family members" to enforce an abortion ban after six weeks into pregnancy, a time when many are not aware of their condition. 

Book Bans are on the rise. Why Now?

There's a not-so-subtle racism and sexism, not to mention homophobia, to book banning.

Women’s History Month Is Not the Same This Year, for Today We Are All Ukrainians

When I mentioned Women's History Month to a friend recently, he reacted with healthy skepticism. He said, "I have to ask what do these months actually do?" It was an apt question.

When a Country Believes its own Mythology (for Good and for Bad)

Since the nation's early days, politicians have embellished much of our history. They weave myths about the founding fathers who allegedly never made a mistake, loved mankind, and trusted the people.

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