B. Maurice Ward examines why many King County youth underestimate the risks of firearm possession, warning that a gun's hidden history and legal consequences can alter lives even without violence. He urges adults to address fear and pressure driving young people toward weapons, build trust, and offer safe alternatives, emphasizing informed decisions over judgment.

Rep. Ayanna Pressley announced federal job guarantee legislation proposing $25 hourly wages during a Congressional Black Caucus Foundation panel addressing Black unemployment disparities. Panelists highlighted stark income gaps affecting Black women and families, discussed healthcare coverage losses during unemployment, and emphasized community mutual aid networks as solutions to systemic economic inequities facing Black households nationwide.

Seattle's Black Butterfly Awards return Saturday, Sept. 26, honoring Black women whose lifelong contributions to family and community often go unrecognized. Created by Charles Tatum Jr. and Carl Copeland, the event at Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute will present Lifetime Achievement Awards to Gertrude Peoples, Charlotte Grady and Attorney Barbara Laners, featuring dinner, music and inspiration.