Seattle's Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute was buzzing despite sub-zero temperatures on January 13, hosting The Griot Party Experience, an event celebrating the rich tapestry of Black storytelling. Local educator and activist Logic Amen joined forces with the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods to create an evening where more than 200 Seattleites defied the cold to immerse themselves in a cultural showcase that included music, storytelling, and live art.

The program started with a dive into the history of Black music, followed by personal narratives from Amen's family, local hip-hop talents, and a mix of men and women storytellers who transported the audience with their oratory. A visual artist took to the stage, creating a vibrant portrayal of Black Panther history, which was later raffled off to an attendee. “People weren't ready to leave,” Amen told Front Porch. “They were jazzed up!“

The Griot Party Experience offered more than just a warm indoor space. It was a space that felt free for attendees, thanks to the DON funding. This support not only made the event more accessible to the public but also ensured that the performers and organizers were compensated for their contributions. “It was good to not have to pay out of my pocket this time to compensate the creators,”, Amen remarked on the significance of the DON's contribution. Tiffine Bradley, co-organizer of the event and long-time attendee, highlighted how helpful the city funding was, "If venue rental hadn't been funded through the City it would have cost us $2,000 or maybe $1100 with the city discount," she emphasized according to Front Porch.

As the event closed, guests were treated to lumpia and a harmonious backdrop of music until midnight, furthering the sense of community and celebration that had been palpable throughout the evening. The Griot Party Experience proved to be a powerful platform for storytellers to keep their narratives alive and strengthen the cultural fabric of Seattle's diverse communities.