Wa Na Wari's annual Walk the Block event once again brought the Central District to life, showcasing a celebration of Black art, culture, and community spirit. The two-day gathering invited attendees to explore the historic neighborhood, experiencing diverse art installations and live performances along every block.

Besa Gordon, host of Back2Besa, joined Erin Mayovsky on Good Day Seattle this morning to preview an upcoming segment on Africatown Plaza, a new affordable housing development in Seattle's Central District. Gordon, who is from the Central District, spoke about the importance of the project, which will provide 126 affordable units and retail space in a neighborhood that has seen significant gentrification in recent years.

Written by: Besa Gordon - Can you say, new season, new commercial, and this one is with my people from Communion, Re-Sole 206, Jerk Shack Kitchen, and Art Noir. Last month, I posted some BTS photos of me shooting a new commercial for Back2Besa with the FOX 13 Seattle production team at Midtown Square in the Central District, and I can now finally share it with you all.

September was Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and each year, the KD Hall Foundation holds their annual Resilient Hearts: Sickle Cell Education & Blood Donation, where community members are not only able to get educated on the effects of Sickle Cell but also donate blood to those in need with the disease. 

Homelessness continues to be one of the most pressing issues facing Seattle and King County, with African Americans disproportionately affected. Despite making up less than 7% of the population, nearly 30% of those experiencing homelessness in the area are Black. Africatown Community Land Trust (ACLT), a community-based organization rooted in Seattle’s Central District, is taking bold steps to change this narrative.

Besa Gordon gives a behind-the-scenes look at her shoot with FOX 13 Seattle for a new upcoming Back2Besa commercial.

Over the weekend, Chardonnay Beaver partnered with the Central District Community Preservation & Development Authority for a screening of her documentary “Fulfilling The Promise: The Rise. The Fall. The Promise” at the McKinney Center. The 90-minute film explores the rich history and cultural impact of Seattle’s Central District, focusing on the activism of Reverend Dr. Samuel Berry McKinney and the legacy of Mount Zion Baptist Church, which has been connected to Beaver's family for six generations.

Fat's Chicken and Waffles, a beloved soul food restaurant in the Central District of Seattle, has been serving up delicious, soulful dishes since 2015. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of New Orleans, Fat's Chicken and Waffles offers a menu that speaks to the soul, featuring classics like chicken and waffles, catfish, red beans, and collard greens.

In the heart of Seattle's Central District, Jerk Shack is more than just a restaurant; it's a community hub where Chef Trey Lamont shares his passion for Caribbean-inspired cuisine. In a recent interview with Kiesha Garrison from Hey Black Seattle, Chef Trey shared his journey and the inspiration behind his unique menu.

Umoja Fest 2024 was a celebration of Black culture, creativity, and community spirit in Seattle's Central District. One of the highlights of the festival was the parade, a spectacular showcase of Black pride and heritage.

The Africatown Community Land Trust (ACLT) is gearing up for its annual Reunion on Union event, a vibrant celebration of community and culture taking place on July 21st from 2 PM to 6 PM at 24th and E. Union. This year's event promises an unforgettable experience filled with electrifying performances, diverse food vendors, and a renewed sense of unity.

Ground Zero Radio (GZR) was on the scene at Metier Brewing Company in Seattle to celebrate Black Music Month with a special live podcast interview featuring Black Stax, legends in the Seattle Hip Hop scene.

Chardonnay Beaver to host a documentary screening and book signing on January 20th at Seattle’s iconic Mt. Zion Baptist Church.

Seattle recently came alive with a vibrant Juneteenth celebration, showcasing the city's dedication to honoring Black history and fostering community unity. The Africatown Community Land Trust's Summer of Soul Juneteenth celebration, hosted by Trae Holiday, drew a diverse crowd eager to commemorate this important day in American history.

On a bright and hopeful day, the Demetrius DuBose Football Camp at Garfield High School in Seattle’s Central District brought together a diverse and enthusiastic group of individuals, all united by a shared purpose: to honor Demetrius DuBose's legacy and promote a message of peace and community unity. This event was not just about football; it was a testament to the strength and spirit of the community that Demetrius loved and served.

Garfield High School celebrated its annual Purple and White Day Assembly last Friday. Traditionally, it is a day of smiles and laughter as it signifies the last time the entire student body will come together to recognize and uplift each other before the senior class heads toward graduation in a few days. This year’s Purple and White Day was in doubt of happening at all following the tragic and senseless murder of student Amarr A’Shawn Murphy-Payne two weeks ago just feet from the entrance to the gym on the Garfield campus as he intervened to stop a fight between two students. 

PHOTOS: Yesterday’s Unity Walk from Jimi Hendrix Park to Garfield High School in the Central District. (Photos Susan Fried)

The walk was not too far, only 1.4 miles, but yesterday's Unity Walk from Jimi Hendrix Park to Garfield High School was not about the distance between two points but rather the first steps on a journey for peace, reconciliation, and community accountability in Seattle’s Central District neighborhood which has found itself in the throes of gun violence. The latest victim being Amarr Murphy-Paine a student at Garfield High School who was shot and killed last week on campus.