The Seattle City Council is riding the wave of Black History Month, dedicating February to honor the legacy and achievements of the city's African American artists and leaders. This commemoration was spearheaded by councilmembers Rob Saka and Joy Hollingsworth, who proposed a proclamation during a meeting that took place this past Tuesday.
According to an announcement on the Seattle City Council's website, the proclamation heralds this year's theme, African Americans and the Arts, it applauds renowned artists such as Jacob Lawrence and James Washington, Jr., and salutes the efforts of Ernestine Anderson, alongside celebrating the rich cultural tapestry displayed at locations like the Northwest African American Museum and the historic Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center.
In a full embrace of this year's theme, the city is set for a month brimming with activities and exhibitions; the proclamation detailed the vast array of contributions from Black artists and cultural figures that shaped Seattle's vibrant community, citing the Onyx Fine Arts Collective, Rainier Arts Center, Arté Noir, and Wa Na Wari as key players in a month-long celebration they hope will inspire, educate, and foster greater understanding of African American cultural history.
