This February, City Hall felt a little different. 

The vibe was fuller. Warmer. Jubilant. 

In honor of Black History Month, staff from the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods, Seattle Department of Transportation, Seattle Public Utilities, and Seattle City Light came together to host Rooted, Resilient, and Rising; a celebration of Black leadership, artistry, and community in Seattle. 

The gathering honored history. And the joy and significance were palpable. 

Mayor Katie B. Wilson joined Seattle City Council President Joy Hollingsworth and other City leaders to honor the moment. One of the most powerful highlights of the afternoon was the proclamation presented to Josephine Howell, whose stirring performance of the Black National Anthem, Lift Ev’ry Voice & Sing, set the tone for the entire gathering. A beloved cultural leader and longtime voice in the city, Josephine was recognized with an official proclamation declaring Josephine Howell Day. It was emotional. It was earned. The standing ovation said everything. 

Presenters also included extraordinary Black leaders, Dawn Mason and Tracy Brown, whose words reminded us that being Black in this city has always required courage and vision. Their reflections acknowledged the struggles that have shaped Seattle and lifted up the brilliance that continues to define it. 

The artistry at the event was unforgettable. A young women delivered a spoken word performance that held the room in stillness before lifting it to its feet. A violinist brought depth and beauty that felt almost sacred. These young artists did not just perform. They carried forward a legacy. 

Black History Month at the City of Seattle is about more than remembrance. It is about making space. It is about telling the truth about the past while investing in the next generation of Black leadership. It is about recognizing that our neighborhoods, our culture, and our public institutions are stronger because of Black resilience and creativity. 

We are grateful to all who helped bring this gathering to life and to every Black leader, artist, City employee, and community member who continues to shape Seattle’s story. 

Please enjoy a collection of photos from the 2026 Black History Month celebration by Mehraki Productions.