The Washington State Institute for Black Heritage celebrates a solemn opening. – Westside Seattle

Kateesha Atterberry cuts off the tape as the member of the Council of 1 Rob Saka for the Washinton Black Heritage Institute, located in the Admiral Region of West Seattle on February 1

Photo by Patrick Robinson

The Washington State Incentration Institute (WSBLI) celebrates its solemn opening and ceremony to cut strips, marking a significant stage for the community. The event, held on February 1, also recognized as the Black Heritage Day of Washington, attracted a crowd of supporters, partners and members of the Community. Despite the mild problem with the time due to the somewhat unpredictable time of the Pacific northwest (snow during the event), the atmosphere was filled with excitement and expectation for the future of the institute.

Catheus Artbury, president and CEO of WSBLI, expressed his gratitude and vision, saying: “We stand on the shoulders of great men and women who have paved the way before us … We are and will still be pioneers in American history. We will continue to break the earth. “She also thanks key partners, including the city of Seattle, the Equal Development Initiative, the Washington Reinvestment Association and the Ministry of Trade …. Atterberry emphasized the importance of heritage and continues to upgrade the work of those who came before , Regardless of the current challenges. She also thanked her team at Urban Black, a real estate development company based on a mission, and her family for their support.

The Institute is located at 2656 42ND Ave SW in the former Admiral sanctuary building. It was purchased last October and has undergone some restoration and retrofitting before the opening.

City Council member at Seattle Rob Saka emphasized the importance of the Institute in the context of current national and international events. He announced: “Against the backdrop of all the things that happen nationally and internationally … In the city of Seattle, in the city city of Seattle, we will continue to honor and celebrate diversity, justice, inclusion.” He emphasized, “Black History is American History” and praises the institute as a leader in promoting a safe, fair, inclusive and diverse city. He presented the official proclamation, claiming on February 1 for Black Heritage Day of Washington State.

Roger Evans, a WSBLI curator, talks about the aspect of the Institute’s Community and the exhibition they have prepared for the month. He stated: “The Black Internal Institute is a Community Institute … This space is your space. Enjoy it. Take care of it. This is for us.” He thanked the Black Heritage Society for the donation of the artifacts of the exhibit and noted the contribution of the staff and volunteers of Gibson EC.

Ashley McCrodi, the WSBLI events and marketing, invited those present to view the space, to look at the artistic exhibit and to enjoy the brush. She also announced that the Black Heritage exhibition will remain open throughout February in honor of the month of black history.

The event ended with a powerful song by Savannah Bols, the first lady of the blood community purchased from the church. She sang, “Sweet chariot came to carry me at home” and also said, “Thank you for your inheritance.” Before cutting the tape, marking the official opening of the institute.

The Washington State Institute for Black Heritage is ready to be a vital space for preserving and celebrating the rich history and culture of the Black Community in Seattle. The Institute includes artistic exhibit with artifacts from the Black Heritage Society and there is also a space to worship pioneers in the Black Community …. WSBLI leaders, along with the city, made a commitment to diversity, justice and inclusion, recognizing the contribution of the black community.

You can Visit WSBLI on Facebook here.