Podcasts

The City of Seattle has announced an expansion of its early learning initiatives with the 2026-27 Seattle Preschool Program, which will provide approximately 2,600 free seats citywide. This effort aims to ensure equitable access to high-quality early education for children from diverse backgrounds, promoting long-term success and opportunity.

The Therapy Fund Foundation is spearheading efforts to dismantle the stigma associated with mental health in Black communities through its Youth Mental Health Ambassador Program. This initiative equips young individuals with the skills to support their peers and advocate for mental health awareness within educational institutions and local communities.

The Church by the Side of the Road, in collaboration with the Low Income Housing Institute, has inaugurated CBSR Village, a 40-unit tiny home community in Tukwila. This initiative aims to offer shelter, stability, and supportive services to individuals, couples, and families facing homelessness.

Seattle audiences are set to witness the remarkable journey of Bessie Coleman, the pioneering aviator who broke racial and gender barriers as the first Black and Native American woman to earn a pilot's license. This inspiring narrative will be brought to life in the new musical Aviatrix, crafted by esteemed journalist Angela Poe Russell. The production will offer a special preview at the Seattle Association of Black Journalists' Black Voices Matter event on March 14th, ahead of its full debut at the Seattle Public Theatre this spring.

The People of Color Against AIDS Network (POCAAN), a pivotal organization in advancing health equity for communities of color in the Pacific Northwest, has appointed Ernest Walker, a Seattle native, as its new executive director. POCAAN, established in 1987 in response to the AIDS epidemic, has evolved into a comprehensive health provider, tackling issues such as HIV prevention, housing, and substance abuse. Walker brings extensive community ties and national nonprofit leadership experience to the role.

Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., a towering figure in American history, is celebrated for his profound contributions to the Civil Rights Movement and his global advocacy for human rights. As a civil rights champion, two-time presidential candidate, and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, Jackson's legacy is marked by his enduring impact on social justice and equity.

Byrd Barr Place will commemorate the centennial of Black History Month by hosting its inaugural community science fair, "Our Science Fair: Energy Conservation Matters," on February 28th. The event aims to honor the contributions of Black pioneers in science, technology, and energy innovation.

The nation mourns the passing of Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson Sr., a towering figure in civil rights, two-time presidential candidate, and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, who died at 84. His legacy of activism profoundly reshaped American politics and broadened the scope of Black political influence.

The closure of the Richmond Free Press, a distinguished Black newspaper, underscores the critical role Black-owned publications play as watchdogs, record-keepers, and trusted voices within their communities.

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast is highlighting the Metro League winter sports season playoffs. Tara Davis, Director of Athletics for Seattle Public Schools, offers her expertise on the developments.