Phyllis Gutiérrez-Kenney, Latina Pioneer in the Washington State Legislature, Dies at 89
EDMONDS [LATINO HERALD]—Former State Representative Phyllis Gutiérrez-Kenney, one of the first Latinas to serve in the Washington State Legislature, passed away Tuesday at the age of 89. The news has prompted a wave of recognition and respect for her legacy of public service and unwavering commitment to educational and economic equity.
Gutiérrez-Kenney was appointed in 1997 to represent the 46th Legislative District, which includes part of King County. She served eight consecutive terms in the House of Representatives until her retirement in 2012, leaving a lasting impact in the areas of education, health, and economic development.
The daughter of Mexican migrant workers who came to the U.S. in 1919, her childhood was shaped by farm labor, starting at the age of five alongside her seven siblings. That experience forged her strong character and lifelong dedication to service. In addition to being a legislator, she was a small business owner, a delegate to the White House Conference on Small Business, president of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and assistant commissioner at the Employment Security Department.
Her passion for education was evident in her work as chair of the Seattle Community College District Board of Trustees and as a commissioner with the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. She also served on the boards of the National Council of La Raza and the National Center for Policy Alternatives.
On April 10, the Washington State Senate passed Resolution SR-8646 in her honor, recognizing her “outstanding contributions to public service, education, healthcare, and economic development.” Representative Sharon Tomiko Santos shared a photo tribute in recognition of her life and legacy.
That same day, during #DoloresHuertaDay, she participated in a tribute held at the State Capitol in Olympia, organized by Latino leaders. Everett City Councilmember Julio Cortés shared a heartfelt message calling her “a pioneer of our Latino community” and expressed deep admiration for the former representative. As part of the ceremony, a portrait of her was unveiled in celebration of her enduring legacy.
Phyllis Gutiérrez-Kenney’s journey began in the fields of the Yakima Valley, where she started working at the age of five as the daughter of migrant farmworkers. Born in Hardin, Montana, in 1936, she was one of eight siblings born across different states as her family followed the harvests. Despite the hardships, her parents insisted she and her youngest brother always attend school. Later in life, she founded the Washington Migrant Council and the Farm Worker Health Clinics, which provided essential services to low-income families. As a legislator, she championed innovative programs like the Opportunity Grant and I-BEST, which helped thousands of low-income adults gain access to technical and higher education. She authored HB 1079, a precursor to the DREAM Act, which allowed undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition. She also chaired key legislative committees, such as the Community and Housing Development Committee, and worked tirelessly to ensure equitable access to education, employment, and healthcare for all communities in the state.
Following news of her passing, Washington State Democratic Party Chair Shasti Conrad released a statement: “Phyllis Gutiérrez-Kenney embodied public service. Her work empowered migrant workers to organize, access healthcare, and secure childcare. We will do everything we can to continue her legacy of advocacy for marginalized communities.”
The Consulate of Mexico in Seattle also expressed condolences, remembering Gutiérrez-Kenney as “one of the most beloved and iconic figures in the history of our community in Washington State.” In a heartfelt message, they noted she was nominated for the Ohtli Award, the highest honor granted by the Mexican government to individuals who dedicate their lives to serving the Mexican community abroad. “We also belong here,” Phyllis would often say. The Consulate emphasized that thanks to her efforts, many now believe it is possible to build a dignified life in this country. “Her legacy will live on through the generations who now have greater opportunities because of her fight.”
After the announcement of her death, the Washington State Commission on Hispanic Affairs remembered Phyllis Gutiérrez Kenney as a key leader in defending the rights of Latino families.
Phyllis Gutiérrez-Kenney, a resident of Edmonds, is remembered not only for her political leadership but for her tireless advocacy for working communities and civil rights. She is survived by her ten children.