Community Videos

Over the past several decades, more than 70 percent of the Central District’s Black residents have been displaced. Neighborhood restoration without displacement requires more than awareness, it requires informed action. A healthy, flourishing Seattle depends on a thriving Black community. The recently convened State of Africatown 2026 was a civic gathering for people who care about shaping the future of the Central District and ensuring Black families and businesses can stay, own, and succeed.

Speakers:
TraeAnna Holiday, Emcee, Producer and Community Advocate
Ebony Arunga, Executive Director, Langston
Nacala Ayele, Joy Actualization Coach, Joyful Practices
Josephine Howell, Singer
Bishop Garry L. Tyson, Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church
Dawn Mason, Elder of Distinction Recipient
George Staggers, Elder of Distinction Recipient
Kweli Vuur, Poet
Bernadette Atuahene, Author
K. Wyking Garrett, President & CEO, Africatown Community Land Trust
Mayor Katie B. Wilson, City of Seattle
Council President Joy Hollingsworth, City of Seattle
Executive Girmay Zahilay, King County
Jacqueline Armstrong, Board Chair, Africatown Community Land Trust