Black History Month is a time in which we celebrate and uplift the contributions of individuals from the African Diaspora. It was originally Black History Week, started by Carter G. Woodson in 1926 to ensure that school children were exposed to black history. 50 years later, it was expanded to Black History month with US President Gerald Ford urging Americans to participate in its observance. Black History Month is now observed in the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, France, Africa, and the Caribbean.

In the words of Marcus Garvey, “If a race has no history, it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” At EastHUB, we celebrate the diversity of our community and honor Black History.

If you are looking for ways to celebrate Black History, we have compiled list of some of the many family-oriented events on the Eastside and beyond. Another positive way to uplift the black community is to support African American and African owned businesses. The following link from the Seattle Met is a list of businesses to support during Black History month and all year long. (Black-Owned Businesses in the Seattle Area | 2023 | Seattle Met). A special shout out to ARTE NOIR, a new nonprofit Black arts and culture retail shop and gallery space located in Seattle’s historic Central District Neighborhood.

For great culinary experiences, The Central District Forum of Seattle’s website is a great source to find culinary artists of color who share cuisine originating from the African Diaspora.  In addition, the following popular restaurants provide more great options: Island Soul, Catfish Corner, the Jerk Shack, Black Star Kebab, Nana’s Southern Kitchen, Hadiani West African Cuisine, and East African Imports.