The Richard Allen Brotherhood (RAB) and the membership of First African Methodist Episcopal Church, Seattle-Auburn, invite the youth, elders and general members of the Pacific Northwest Community to a Black History Month “Tribute to BLACK WALL STREET,” featuring an exciting and illuminating presentation by Dr. Quintard Taylor at 10:00 a.m. on Sat., Feb. 18 at First AME Church – 1522 14th Avenue in Seattle.
Dr. Taylor, founder of the internationally-acclaimed BlackPast.org, is a celebrated author and lecturer, and is the University of Washington Scott and Dorothy Bullitt professor of American History.
“Black Wall Street” was the Greenwood community of Tulsa, Oklahoma that in 1920 boasted of 600 Black businesses, including some 21 restaurants, 30 grocery stores, 2 movie theatres, 6 private airplanes, a hospital, a bank, law offices, a library and a bus system. Among the 21 churches was the original Vernon A.M.E. Church. All of this was destroyed by the Tulsa race riot of 1921 in which some 300 Blacks lost their lives and more than 9,000 left homeless.
Dr. Taylor will discuss the loss – and the legacy of this tragedy during his presentation.
The program will include youth free-style expressions as well as intergenerational fellowship. All youth in attendance are eligible to receive a gift of at least one book of African American art, history or poetry, compliments of the Richard Allen Brotherhood and sponsors.
Consistent with preserving the legacy, the RAB will also honor pre-registered business owners and operators. Owners, please contact Calvin Saunders or John Reed through the church office to sign up to be recognized, or to have a single table display about your product or service.
Community brothers, youth and members are also invited to the 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast. There is no charge for the meal but donations are welcomed.
For additional information contact RAB President Harry Thompson, Jr. or RAB Treasure Leonard Williams through the church office, (206) 324-3664.
First AME Church Seattle is located at 1522 14th Avenue, Seattle, Washington, Rev. Dr. Carey G. Anderson, Sr. Pastor.
