Podcasts

The King County Council has approved a $20 billion biennial budget for 2026-27, marking a significant commitment to uplifting Black communities throughout the county. The budget allocates substantial resources toward housing stability, small business development, civic engagement, youth services, and reparative actions, addressing the county’s historical discriminatory practices.

The Kent Black Action Commission is spearheading a petition to rename nearly 10 miles of Benson Highway through Renton, Kent, and parts of unincorporated King County with honorary signage bearing Dr. King’s name. With support from State Representative Mia Gregerson and coordination from the Washington State Department of Transportation, this effort aims to extend Martin Luther King Jr. Way from Seattle deeper into South King County—without impacting existing addresses or road names.

The "State of Black Washington" Town Hall, organized by the Black members caucus at Highline College, convened lawmakers, policy experts, and community leaders to address the political, economic, and social challenges confronting Black Washingtonians. The event served as a call to action amid escalating threats to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has officially conceded the mayoral race, marking the end of his tenure characterized by crisis recovery, significant housing investments, and efforts to unify the city. As Seattle transitions to new leadership under Mayor-elect Katie Wilson, Harrell's legacy will be examined for its impact on the city's Black community and broader social justice initiatives.

The Seattle Medium has announced its endorsements for pivotal local elections, including the positions of Seattle's mayor, city attorney, and city council, emphasizing a careful evaluation of leadership, accountability, and the potential impact on the community.

The Judge Charles V. Johnson Youth & Law Forum marks its 35th anniversary with a complimentary, full-day event aimed at middle and high school students, parents, and guardians. This initiative seeks to inspire and empower young individuals to harness their voices and emerge as future leaders in the realms of law and justice.

Erika Evans, a former federal and city prosecutor, has announced her candidacy for Seattle City Attorney, with a platform focused on restoring fairness, rebuilding trust, and ensuring equitable justice for all citizens.

Cierra Sisters will host a Sip & Pour Brunch on Sunday, an event aimed at supporting their nonprofit's mission to educate, empower, and uplift Black women and women of color impacted by breast cancer.

The ongoing federal government shutdown is exacerbating financial instability among retirees nationwide, with rising Medicare Part B premiums and postponed Social Security Cost of Living Adjustments. These developments are particularly concerning for the millions of seniors who depend solely on Social Security for their income, highlighting the broader implications of the shutdown on vulnerable populations.

Seattle natives Mary Wideman-Williams and Marquinta Obomanu have launched SistahBoss, a leadership initiative aimed at empowering Black women through mentorship, coaching, and workshops. Established in 2023, the program seeks to enhance leadership skills and foster community among Black women, addressing the historical exclusion from decision-making spaces.