CityStream segments

Churches are essential to Black Seattle. They are places of worship, community gathering spaces, organizing hubs, and cultural anchors through decades of change and displacement. As part of a larger Black history initiative, we are launching Black Sanctuaries in Motion, to tell a variety of stories starting with a short illustrated video about First African Methodist Episcopal church. Watch the video and learn more about this work on the Frontporch blog.

This video story was made possible with funding from King County 4Culture. Research by Michelle Bacca and review from Stephanie Johnson-Toliver, President, Black Heritage Society of Washington State. Written and illustrated by Susie Philipsen, Seattle Department of Neighborhoods. Editing and videography by Ian Devier, Seattle Channel. Narrated by Council President Joy Hollingsworth. Archival photos provided by First A.M.E. Church, Seattle Municipal Archive, Museum of History & Industry. All with permission from Reverend Doctor Carey G. Anderson, First African Methodist Episcopal church. Thank you to the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods Historic Preservation staff for championing this work.