We welcomed policy expert and self-proclaimed “dad joke connoisseur” Eli Taylor Goss as our newest executive director. Throughout his career, Eli has contributed to many legislative wins for immigration, reproductive rights, higher education, and for tax justice in Washington state – amid a changing state and federal landscape. We talked with them about their interests, his immediate priorities for our organization, and how he enjoys his  time outside of work. 

What makes you most excited about working with the Budget and Policy Center in this role?

I’m definitely most excited about supporting the team to advance economic justice in the public arena through strategic and effective research and narrative work. Combined with the strong Theory of Change the staff and board finalized last year that clearly grounds our work in partnerships and racial equity, I’m excited to be part of continuing to implement that grounding in all that we do.

I’m also excited to be part of fundamentally changing our tax code to advance economic and racial justice for working families. Tax justice is racial justice.

I deeply believe in a future of Washington state where everyone has their basic needs met, ample opportunity, and the ability to shape their lives. At its heart, economic justice to me means we have time with our loved ones; that we have enough economic resources to provide for ourselves and those in our care and to have time together that is meaningful, easeful and joyful.

What was a key point in your life when you knew you wanted to pursue public policy?

Hurricane Katrina was a turning point for me in my youth in understanding structural racism and the failure of government – and in being introduced to the power of community organizing and coalitions. I was forever changed being part of rebuilding efforts in my high school in Texas and hearing stories from residents about decades of government neglect and the result of thousands of lives and homes lost, and lives that were forever changed. It was a turning point for me to get involved in multi-racial community organizing and policy campaigns back in Texas. I deeply believe in the importance of public programs, infrastructure, and democracy. I also know that evidence-based research shared with coalitions and grassroots organizations to advance economic justice, is a key way to help make our state the best it can be for every resident.

What are you focusing on in your first few months?

Partnerships and strategy. Research done in a silo is just a bunch of numbers. However, research done in partnership and combined with powerful narrative is strategic. It also ensures we are shaping public policy that centers equity and as we continue to prioritize the health and alignment of our relationships with key partners, it will be foundational to the ability for us to be effective and advance our mission.

What most excites you about our Theory of Change?

So many things! I am excited that it explicitly names supporting tribal sovereignty as part of our strategy and that we are including all Washington residents, regardless of immigration status. Too often research doesn’t disaggregate data by race, ethnicity, gender, or disability, and policies end up having disproportionate effects that were completely preventable. Being explicit is foundational to practicing equity.

How do you like to start your day?

A cup of coffee, breakfast, and a 5–10-minute meditation. Getting grounded is key to ensure I am able to better navigate our work. I am surprised I have become someone who meditates, but I welcome it. Also to be completely honest, I definitely drink multiple cups of coffee.

When you’re not at work, how do you like to spend your free time?

My friendships and chosen family are my most cherished gifts. Together we get out into the mountains, get out on a dance floor, and sit around the dinner table telling stories.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I also perform drag every now and then around Seattle under the stage name SirLoin.

Any final thoughts?

I just would like to express gratitude and recognition of what an honor it is to work at Budget and Policy Center as we move toward its 20^th anniversary next year. Staff, board, and partners have been part of huge policy milestones in our state such as the capital gains tax and the Working Families Tax Credit. I look forward to being part of what we will help build and move in the coming years that are based on the premise and belief that economic and racial justice is possible in Washington and within reach in our lifetimes.

Contact Eli at elig(at)budgetandpolicy.dot.org.