Black History Month: Honoring the Past, Building the Future
Black History Month is a time to honor, reflect on, and learn about the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. At Kids Co., we believe that Black History Month is more than an acknowledgment, it’s an opportunity for families to embrace diversity, foster inclusivity, and deepen their understanding of our collective history.
Teaching children about Black history not only honors the achievements and struggles of Black Americans but also creates a foundation for empathy and respect. In Seattle, there are several destinations where families can learn about Black history and culture together. Here are some must-visit spots:
Douglass-Truth Branch – The Seattle Public Library
Location: 2300 E Yesler Way, Seattle, WA 98122
Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, Sunday: 12:00 PM–5:00 PM
The Douglass-Truth Branch of The Seattle Public Library is a treasure trove of African American history and culture. Named in honor of Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth, it houses the most extensive African American Collection in the Pacific Northwest. With over 10,000 items, including books, photographs, and rare documents, this branch is a vital resource for families eager to explore the richness of African American history.
Children and parents can discover stories of African American pioneers, inventors, activists, and artists. During Black History Month, the library offers engaging story times, workshops, and curated booklists, making it a dynamic space to learn and connect with history.
Northwest African American Museum (NAAM)
Location: 2300 S Massachusetts St, Seattle, WA 98144
Hours: Thursday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
The Northwest African American Museum (NAAM) serves as a vital gathering space for celebrating and exploring the African American experience in the Pacific Northwest. NAAM’s exhibitions and programs tell stories of resilience, creativity, and cultural evolution. Kids can explore exhibits on visual arts, music, crafts, and literature that highlight the vibrant history of African Americans in the region.
NAAM also showcases stories of recent Black immigrants from Somalia, Sudan, and Ethiopia, offering a broader perspective on the African diaspora. It’s a place where children can learn about the interconnectedness of history and culture, fostering an appreciation for diversity and shared experiences.
Jimi Hendrix Park
Location: 2400 S Massachusetts St, Seattle, WA 98144 (right outside NAAM)
Hours: Open daily, 4:00 AM–11:30 PM
Just steps away from NAAM, Jimi Hendrix Park honors the legendary Seattle-born musician who revolutionized rock and roll. This expansive park features paved pathways, grassy fields, and art installations inspired by Jimi Hendrix’s life and music. Families can enjoy a relaxing stroll or a picnic while exploring the park’s vibrant sculptures and murals.
Wild Blue Angel: Hendrix Abroad, 1966–70
Location: Museum of Pop Culture, 325 5th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
The Wild Blue Angel: Hendrix Abroad, 1966–70 exhibit dives into the life and legacy of Seattle-born guitar legend Jimi Hendrix during his peak years. Highlighting his time in the UK and Europe, this exhibit reveals how Hendrix’s revolutionary music reshaped global culture between 1966 and 1970. The exhibit celebrates Hendrix as a musician and a cultural icon whose work broke barriers and inspired generations. Families can explore the stories behind his iconic performances and his journey as an African American artist from Seattle who left an indelible mark on the world.
This exhibit offers kids a glimpse into Hendrix’s creative process and the challenges he overcame to achieve international success. They’ll learn about his role in shaping music history, his innovative use of the guitar, and how his bold creativity encouraged self-expression and resilience.
August Wilson Way Portal
Location: 305 Harrison St, Seattle, WA 98109
Hours: Open daily
The August Wilson Way Portal, located behind the Seattle Repertory Theatre, is a tribute to the acclaimed playwright August Wilson. Known for his “Pittsburgh Cycle” plays, which chronicle African American life throughout the 20th century, Wilson spent his final years in Seattle.
The portal features a striking 12-foot arch and red door that symbolize Wilson’s legacy of storytelling and resilience. Visiting this site offers families a chance to learn about his work and its significance in portraying the Black experience.
Wa Na Wari
Location: 911 24th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122
Hours: Tuesday–Thursday, 2:00 PM–6:00 PM | Friday, 2:00 PM-8:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM
Wa Na Wari, meaning “our home,” is a community hub for Black art and culture in Seattle’s Central District. Housed in a family-owned home passed down through five generations, Wa Na Wari offers art exhibits, concerts, film screenings, and more. This space highlights the importance of Black-owned property and its role in preserving cultural heritage amidst rising housing costs.
Sources:
https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/jimi-hendrix-park
https://www.naamnw.org/mission
https://www.mopop.org/exhibitions/hendrix-wild-blue-angel
https://tinybeans.com/seattle/black-history-landmarks-monuments-sea/
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https://www.kidscompany.org/book-recommendations-for-juneteenth/
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