Honoring Seattle’s Influential Black Leaders: A Lesson in History and Inclusivity

By Jessica Schwartz | February 13, 2025

Seattle is home to a rich history of Black leaders who have shaped the city’s cultural, artistic, and social landscape. From education to the arts, these individuals have left an indelible mark, inspiring future generations to dream big and make a difference in their communities. Learning about their stories is more than just a history lesson—it’s a way to teach kids the values of perseverance, creativity, and social change while fostering a society that truly celebrates diversity. Here are five influential Black figures from Seattle whose legacies continue to inspire.

Gertrude Dawson – A Champion for Education

As the first African American nurse hired by Group Health Hospital in 1956, Dawson broke barriers in a field where diversity was scarce. She wasn’t just a caregiver; she was an advocate for systemic change. In 1965, she served as the chief nurse-negotiator, securing significant salary increases for nurses across Washington State, ensuring that healthcare professionals received the recognition and compensation they deserved.

But Dawson’s passion for equity didn’t stop at healthcare—it carried into education as well. In 1970, she founded the Metropolitan Seattle Sickle Cell Task Force (MSSCTF), providing crucial screening, counseling, and support for families affected by Sickle Cell Disease. Recognizing the challenges faced by young people living with this condition, Dawson established the Gertrude Dawson Scholarship, offering financial assistance to students with Sickle Cell Disease pursuing higher education. Through this scholarship, Dawson’s legacy lives on, empowering students to overcome obstacles and achieve their academic dreams.

Corinne Carter – A Trailblazer in Civil Rights

Corinne Carter’s name might not appear in every history book, but her impact on Seattle’s Black community is undeniable. As one of the few African American women mentioned in early City records, Carter’s dedication to social justice and youth advocacy paved the way for future generations.

Starting around 1912, Carter volunteered with the Seattle Police Department, working closely with African American children who found themselves in the system. By 1914, she was officially designated as a “Special Policewoman,” a role that allowed her to continue her work without bearing the personal financial burden of transportation across the city. Despite her official title, Carter’s work remained unpaid—a direct example of the systemic racism she was working against, as well as a testament to her selfless commitment to the well-being of her community.

Carter’s unique position within the Police Department opened her eyes to the struggles faced by African American youth and newcomers to Seattle. She recognized the urgent need for safe, supportive spaces, especially for young Black women who often lacked access to housing and resources in the city. This led to one of her most significant achievements: helping establish the Phillis Wheatley Branch of the YWCA at Twenty-fourth and Howell. This branch offered social, educational, and employment programs for African American girls, along with much-needed overnight accommodations for those traveling from out of town.

Blair Underwood – From Seattle to Hollywood

Blair Underwood, an accomplished actor, director, and activist, was born in Tacoma and spent part of his childhood in Seattle. Best known for his roles in television and film, Underwood has used his platform to advocate for social justice, education, and opportunities for underprivileged communities. His contributions extend beyond entertainment, as he actively supports organizations that provide resources for marginalized youth.

Blair Underwood’s success shows kids that representation in media matters. Seeing and hearing diverse voices in film and television helps young people feel seen and encourages them to pursue their passions in the arts.

Jacob Lawrence – A Visionary in the Arts

Jacob Lawrence was more than just a painter—he was a storyteller who used his art to vividly depict the African American experience. Born in 1917 in Atlantic City, New Jersey, Lawrence moved to Harlem at the age of 13, where he became deeply influenced by the Harlem Renaissance. This vibrant cultural movement shaped his artistic style and passion for capturing the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans through bold, colorful, and dynamic imagery.

In 1971, Lawrence moved to Seattle, where he became a professor at the University of Washington’s School of Art. During his time in Seattle, he continued to create powerful works that highlighted the African American experience while inspiring a new generation of artists. Lawrence’s commitment to education and mentorship also had a lasting impact on Seattle’s Black community. He helped create spaces for Black artists to thrive and encouraged young people to use their creativity as a tool for expression and empowerment. His legacy continues to inspire artists and storytellers to this day, reminding us of the power of art to challenge injustice and celebrate culture.

August Wilson – The Playwright Who Told the Story of a Generation

August Wilson was one of America’s most influential playwrights, known for chronicling the African American experience through his acclaimed Pittsburgh Cycle—a series of ten plays that depict Black life in each decade of the 20th century. Born in Pittsburgh in 1945, Wilson grew up in the Hill District, a vibrant, predominantly Black neighborhood that served as the backdrop for much of his work. His work earned him two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama and solidified his place as a towering figure in American theater.

In the later years of his life, Wilson made Seattle his home, where he continued to write and stage many of his plays at the Seattle Repertory Theatre. His time in Seattle not only enriched the city’s cultural landscape but also connected the local Black community to broader stories of heritage and identity. Through his authentic storytelling, Wilson captured the complexities of African American life, creating characters that were deeply human and universally relatable. His work brought Black narratives to the forefront of American theater, challenging audiences to confront uncomfortable truths while celebrating the beauty and strength of Black culture.

His work encourages young people to embrace their identities, explore their roots, and recognize the importance of sharing their stories with the world. By studying Wilson’s plays, kids gain a deeper appreciation for diversity and the rich tapestry of experiences that shape our society.